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Howard Curtis Andrews Obituary

Graduation Year Faculty
Date of Passing Aug 16, 2003
About Mr. Howard Curtis "Andy" Andrews, 75, of Middletown, died Saturday, Aug. 16, at Frederick Memorial Hospital.

He was the husband of Bonnie M. Neat Andrews. They were married Aug. 3, 1962, at First Presbyterian Church, Lonaconing.

Born June 9, 1928, in Lonaconing, he was the son of the late George and Bessie Andrews.

He graduated in 1946 from Central High School in Lonaconing and entered Catherman's Business College, where he earned an accounting degree in 1948. He worked for Jenkins Coal Co. until being drafted into the U.S. Army at the start of the Korean War in 1950. While stationed at Fort Bragg, N.C., Mr. Andrews played in the Army band and performed with Judy Garland and Shirley Temple. He served the following two years at Fort Richardson, Alaska, as a heavy equipment mechanic.

After his honorable discharge as a corporal in 1954, Mr. Andrews attended Frostburg State Teacher's College, where he started the college's first jazz band and earned his bachelor's and master's degrees. He later attended the University of Maryland, qualifying for a doctorate in music.

In 1956, Mr. Andrews accepted a short-term position as a music teacher at Walkersville High School, and began his 30-year career with Frederick County schools. He taught both vocal and instrumental music, and organized bands at several local high schools. He directed the Walkersville High School Band throughout his career. Mr. Andrews encouraged all his students to attend college, as he continued to do, and he assisted many students in seeking scholarships. He also played in several local bands.

He and his wife had played together in a band, and they shared a lifelong love of music.

He retired from teaching in 1984, and spent time doing volunteer work to benefit the homeless and veterans organizations. He enjoyed the company of his cat, Spike.

He was a member of First Presbyterian Church, the El Fidel Society, American Legion Post 155, the Musicians' Union, and the United Mechanics Order. He had currently been director of the Harmony Cornet Band. Mr. Andrews had been recognized on many occasions for his contributions to Frederick and Allegheny counties.

Surviving in addition to his wife are his mother-in-law, Jeannette Neat of Middletown; one uncle, Earl Andrews of Lonaconing; and one aunt, Mildred Andrews of Lonaconing.

The family will receive friends from 10 to 11 a.m. Friday, Aug. 22, at Frederick Church of the Brethren, 201 Fairview Ave., Frederick, where a memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. A reception will follow the service at the church. Robert Elkins will officiate and the Harmony Cornet Band will perform.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Harmony Cornet Band Renovation Project c/o Michael Shultz, 320 Thomas Ave., Frederick, Md. 21701.

Published in The Frederick News-Post on Aug. 20, 2003.
Howard Curtis Andrews