Andrew Lee James, Sr. was born to the union of the late Robert and Irene James on August 30, 1940, in Inverness, Florida. He was educated in Citrus County and graduated from Booker T. Washington High School.

He enlisted and served in the U.S. Army after graduation and completed tours of duty in the United States and Vietnam. After serving in the Army, he began his career as a Nursing Assistant, and he served as a Medical Administrator at the Veterans Administration Medical Center in Gainesville, Florida until his retirement in 2004.  Andrew accepted Christ at an early age and attended Mt. Carmel Missionary Baptist Church in Inverness, Florida. As an adult, he was a faithful member of Open Door Ministries, where he faithfully served as an usher, purchasing agent, treasurer, choir member, and assisted with the Grounds Ministry. Brother Andy faithfully attended Church and supported various activities until his health failed.

Andrew enjoyed nature and spending time with friends and family. His hobbies included working with his hands, traveling, and fishing. He was a Florida Gator fan and enjoyed watching and attending sporting events. He answered the Master's Call on March 7, 2020, after serving 79 years on the Lord's battlefield. He is preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Irene James, and brother, Clarence James.

He leaves to cherish his life, love, giving spirit, and beautiful memories, his loving wife, Mrs. Betty James; three cherished children, Mr. Andrew Lee James, Jr., Ms. Andrea Rivers, and Mrs. Angela Wilson (George); one blessed grandson, Mr. Armani Adams; two siblings, Mrs. Delores Wilson and Mrs. Barbara Jackson (Richard); one brother-in-law, Mr. Louis Bailey; one sister-in-law, Mrs. Zola Debose Soloman; five Godchildren, Ms. Rosalind Jones, Mr. Ernest Cue, Mr. Eric Nattiel, Mr. Bryan Nattiel, and Mr. Adrian Wallace; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, relatives, and friends.

Please send all floral tributes to: Chestnut Funeral Home, 18 NW 8th Avenue, Gainesville, Florida 32601.