Ira Obed Andrews

Mr. Ira Obed Andrews, age 87, of Arab, Alabama passed away in the early morning hours of Wednesday, May 21, 2025, at Marshall Medical Center North. Born in Clarke County, AL on December 28, 1937, Ira was a highly anticipated (but late) Christmas present for his parents, William Claude Andrews and Leeta Hicks Andrews. He married Jeanette Louise Fail in 1961, and the two made a commitment to each other that has lasted over 64 years. As a young man, Ira proudly served a four-year commitment with the US Coast Guard. He completed his education by earning a bachelor’s degree and was employed in the Emergency Operations Center at Redstone Arsenal where his professional expertise proved invaluable. Ira was a respected and valuable member of the Arab Masonic Lodge #663. He was modest about his achievements, but his contributions, calm demeanor, and thoughtful approach were qualities that earned him respect and admiration in both his professional and private life. His life exemplified service, dedication, and humility, and he strived to leave every place he encountered better than he found it. Ira had a warm and loving spirit that touched everyone around him. Known for his humor, patience, and thoughtful insight, he was always willing to listen, learn, and teach. He had a passion for picking the guitar and an endless curiosity about the world. If he didn’t know something, he would dive into research until he understood it completely, then return with a well-thought-out answer, eager to share what he’d learned. He had a gift for mentorship. Whether he was guiding his children and grandchildren or simply offering a quiet presence, Ira was steady, kind, and wise. He especially cherished the time spent with his great-grandson, watching him grow and explore the world. Ira was a protector, someone who was always there, offering support, strength, and unconditional love. His greatest legacy may be the values he lived by: love, patience, and an unwavering dedication to being there for those he cared about. He was the kind of person you could always count on, ready to help, ready to listen, and always ready to love. Ira’s legacy will continue to live in the hearts of those who loved him. His loving family members surviving to cherish memories include his wife, Jeanette Andrews; his daughter and son-in-law, Claudia and Robert Schultz; his son, Stanley Dean Andrews; his grandchildren, Joseph Paul Baude (Ariana Assad) and Jordan Andrew Baude (Courtney); and his great grandchild, Truett Ira Jackson Baude. The family has decided to honor Ira’s wishes which includes cremation. A memorial service will be announced when plans are completed. Arab Heritage Memorial Chapel has been entrusted with arrangements.

Ira Obed Andrews

December 28, 1937 - May 21, 2025