Vernon Andrews

Vernon Donald "Chigger" Andrews, 80, went to walk with Jesus on Saturday, August 8, 2015 at his home in Dinwiddie, where he was surrounded by his family. Donald was born in Petersburg, Virginia on September 10, 1934 to the late Vernon Daniel Andrews and Viola Wyatt-Andrews Hastings. He attended schools in Ettrick and Petersburg, finishing his public education at Thomas Dale High School. As a renaissance man, Donald had talent, skill and knowledge in many areas which led to a diverse and successful life. His love for the outdoors came natural in rural Virginia, working on local farms, racing boats on the James and as a lifeguard at Moore's Lake where he met his beautiful wife, Joyce Ann Lee. Donald followed in his parent's footsteps securing a position with Brown & Williamson Tobacco Company becoming a valued asset as a master carpenter, machinist and a leader with union negotiations. He was a member of the local International Association of Machinist and Aerospace Workers. Retiring from B & W as the company moved to Georgia, Donald transitioned into his next season of life building homes with, and for his sons and neighbors, farming a little and boating a lot. Chigger supported and encouraged family and friends in thought, word and deed. Donald was a member of Smyrna Baptist Church in Dinwiddie, and according to several friends and neighbors a legend of a man. He is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Joyce; sons, Donald Craig Andrews of Dinwiddie, Vernon Tod Andrews of Carrboro, North Carolina and Joseph Dale Andrews and wife, Kirstin, of Dinwiddie; grandchildren, Grayson David Andrews and Amelia Victoria Andrews Servis and husband, James; great-grandchildren, Sierra, Noah, Rebekah, Lucas, Elijah and Joshua; and beloved sister-in-law, Shelva Lee Cobb of Drewryville, Virginia. A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, August 11, 2015 at Smyrna Baptist Church, 18971 Carson Road, Dinwiddie, Virginia 23841, with Reverend Robert Rowland III officiating. A reception will follow the service at the church. Arrangements are being handled by E. Alvin Small Funeral Homes and Crematory, 2033 Boulevard, Colonial Heights, Virginia 23834. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, 4240 Park Place Court, Glen Allen, Virginia 23060, or to any local youth sports organization. Condolences may be registered at www.ealvinsmall.com.

Service Information

Tuesday, August 11th, 2015 2:00pm