Charles Wade Andrews

When it comes to southern gentlemen, there was none so fine as Charles Wade Andrews, who passed away peacefully June 22 surrounded by his family. A lifelong resident of South Fulton, TN, Charles Wade was born July 29, 1937, and would have celebrated his 60th anniversary with his high school sweetheart this August 15th. He graduated with a Doctorate of Pharmacy from the University of Tennessee at Memphis where he was a member of the Kappa Psi Pharmacy Fraternity. He worked alongside his brother as a pharmacist at their family owned Southside Drug Store for over 40 years and received "The Golden Graduate" award from The University of Tennessee Health Science Center for 50 years of loyal service in the field of pharmacy in 2010. He was also an active member of South Fulton United Methodist Church. An honest, honorable man who deflected credit and accolades even when it was earned, Charles Wade should be praised for so beautifully upholding his marriage vows, cherishing and honoring his wife who lives with Alzheimer’s until he was no longer able. He made sure she always had fresh flowers in her room and listened to hours upon hours of Elvis albums by her side, every day. Despite her constantly fleeting memories, she always knew her sweet husband and sang one last round of “You Are My Sunshine” as he left his earthly body. When not at the drugstore, Charles Wade could be found on the golf course at Fulton Country Club or with an ice cold beer at the Keg, or spending time with his beloved wife. Charles Wade loved his bird dogs (and bird hunting), classic movies, and big band music. He played the trumpet alongside his father in the Lawrence Welk worthy band, The Melody Men, and continued his love for music by playing in the local jazz band The Melody Makers. He is preceded in death by his precious grandson, Charles Reid Thomas who surely escorted him into the pearly gates, and he was also reunited with his beautiful mother Sara James Mott Andrews and gentlemanly father Charles Otto Andrews.  He is survived by his wife and love of his life Lucy Anderson Andrews, three darling daughters, Connie Brown of Memphis, Lynn Lowry (Kris) of Birmingham, Ginger Thomas  (Greg) of Nashville, and beloved brother Phillip Andrews (Judy) of South Fulton. Seven grandchildren (and three grandchildren-in-law) had the honor and privilege of calling him Grandy, and three great grandchildren carry on his legacy of loyalty and love. Charles Wade was known to be sharply dressed, profoundly genuine, fiercely faithful, and always carried with him a pack of spearmint gum and tube of Burt’s Bees.  He opened his home and heart to countless animals, and made an impact on all who crossed his path. He was a fine fellow and will be missed dearly. Visitation will be at Hornbeak Funeral Home in Fulton on Monday, June 24th from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. with a private graveside service following afterwards. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Alzheimer's Association or Layers of Hope c/o Darcy Linn in Fulton.