John Andrews Obituary

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Dr. John W. Andrews on July 13, 2025. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and devoted physician. Born on May 7, 1929, in Cedar Key, Florida, Dr. Andrews lived a life marked by compassion, service, and unwavering dedication to the wellbeing of others.

He is survived by his loving wife Joanne. He is also survived by his 3 daughters: Jennie Bryan (Jim) of Louisville, KY, Debbie Warden (Tom) of Gainesville, GA, Vivian Graham of Gainesville, FL, granddaughter, Kelley Graham of Gainesville, FL, and lots of terrific cousins, nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his brother Dan Andrews as well as Shirley Walker Andrews (wife) and Lucille Dumont Andrews (wife).

From his formative years in Cedar Key, Dr. John W. Andrews demonstrated a strong curiosity for nature and empathy for those around him. These attributes shaped his academic journey through the University of Florida and Emory University, culminating in a medical degree and board certification in internal medicine and cardiology. Dr. Andrews served two years in the Air Force as a base physician in Lubbock, TX.

John practiced medicine with a gentle hand and an open heart, touching countless lives both within and beyond his medical practice. Known for his wisdom, patience, and tireless advocacy for his patients, he was respected by colleagues and cherished by those under his care. In 1961, he joined Dr. John Crago and Dr. Henry Harris Graham in private practice. In 1963, he struck out on his own where Dr. Richard Cunningham joined him. This was the beginning of the Gainesville Medical Group – Andrews and Associates (now known as HCA Florida Gainesville Internal Medicine Physicians). He was instrumental in the founding of North Florida Regional Medical Center (NFMRC) in 1971. His commitment was far reaching, as he served in leadership roles at UF Health Shands Hospital as a Chief Resident, NFRMC first Chief of Staff, president of the Alachua County Medical Society and Vice President of NFRMC Board of Trustees for 16 years.

Family and friends recall John's warmth, his keen wit, and his love for stories, especially those that brought laughter and light to gatherings. A lover of nature, he spent many peaceful hours exploring the Gulf Coast, fishing, and savoring the smells and sounds of his beloved hometown Cedar Key. He maintained strong ties to Cedar Key and along with his brother Dan, donated the Andrews House and other artifacts to the Cedar Key Historical Society and Museum. He was an active board member and docent at the museum. In 2016, he published "Cedar Key Fiber and Brush Factory: From the Tree to Thee" and later co-authored a second book with his beloved friend, Pamela Wadley, "Cedar Key Memories of Grady McLeod and Dr. John Andrews".

Driven by an interest and a passion for nature, he explored places such as the Amazon, Ecuador, Costa Rica, Honduras, Canada, Alaska, the Galapagos Islands, France, and much of the United States. Among his travels, he especially enjoyed fishing on the Amazon.

John was an avid University of Florida sports fan, especially enjoying victories over the Georgia Bulldogs or Tennessee Vols in football, softball, and basketball.

John was blessed to have a loving family and close friends. His legacy of kindness, service, and integrity endures in every life he touched. Though his time with us has drawn to a close, the memory of Dr. John W. Andrews will remain forever in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Friday, July 18, 2025, at Weems & Sons Funeral Home, 715 West Park Ave, Chiefland, FL.

A memorial service will be held 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, July 19, 2025, at Christ Episcopal Church, Cedar Key, FL where friends and family are invited to celebrate a life so beautifully lived and a heart so deeply loved. A reception will be held in the church immediately following the service. The burial will take place after the conclusion of the reception.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Cora Tooke Andrews Scholarship Fund to be given to a senior Cedar Key High School student. Checks can be made out to Christ Episcopal Church/Andrews Scholarship and mailed to Christ Episcopal Church, P.O. Box 210, Cedar Key, FL 32625 or a charity of your choice in John's memory.

Arrangements are entrusted to Weems & Sons Funeral Homes, 715 West Park Avenue Chiefland, Florida 32626.