Ira Lee Andrews

Ira Lee Andrews, 74, of Tucson Arizona, died June 4, 2013 after a long battle with cancer. He spent his final days surrounded by his loving family. Ira was born October 20, 1938 to the Late James Herbert and Velma Andrews in Houston, TX. He was one of 10 children. He attended Dunbar School and Tucson High school. There he quickly became well known for his exceptional basketball skills which later earned him a full scholarship to Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff, AZ. He accepted the Lord and was baptized at a young age. While attending MT Calvary Baptist Church, he blossomed in the Lord and went on to serve as a pianist, director of the male chorus and later as a Deacon. In 1998, he and his wife Doris joined the New Testament Baptist Church where he served as a greeter, played the piano and sang for the Lord until the time of his illness. Ira was known as a kind and caring man by all who knew him and his spirit and goodwill touched the heart and soul of everyone who came in contact with him. Often described as "The perfect gentleman", his pleasant demeanor, sweet smile and his flare for making people laugh earned him many friends and acquaintances and allowed him to excel in his career at Dobbs Honda where he earned the Top Salesman award for many years. He treated everyone with dignity and truly tried to help them with their needs. He was trusted, respected and loved in his professional environment just as in his personal relationships. Although he was an avid sports fan, many knew that he was a die hard Lakers and Dodger fan. He also had a passion for music and in his younger days he sang and performed professionlly for a time. Ira was a devoted husband for 25 years, a loving father, and a doting Grandfather. He had a special relationship with his brothers and sisters. Before his passing he said "My work here is done and I'm ready to go home with the Lord" He was God's blessing to all who knew him and he will truly be missed by us all. Ira leaves behind to cherish his memory, his loving wife Doris P. Andrews, Son, Reginald Andrews, Daughters, Sharyn Andrews, Natalie Andrews and Lori Andrews, Step-Daughter Gail R Jones (Elmer) He also leaves behind 3 brothers Vernon Andrews (LaFonta), Clarence Andrews (Mary) and Thomas Andrews (Mary) 5 Sisters, Mildred Shepherd, Katie Andrews, Thelma Hearn, Lola Ward and Helene Andrews. 6 grandchildren, Frances Ellis, Jessica Grindle (Terrell), Brandon Newson, Mikal Dubey, Mikayla Dubey and Louis Cruz. One brother, James Andrews preceded him in death. Funeral will be held on Monday, June 10, 2013 at New Testament Baptist Church, 2855 N. Craycroft Road, Tucson, Arizona. Interment will follow at South Lawn Cemetery, 5401 S. Park Avenue, Tucson, AZ