James “Jim” A. Andrew, 74, of Lafayette, passed away peacefully on Thursday, April 11, 2024, at IU Health Arnett Hospital surrounded by his family.

Born on July 4, 1949, in Lafayette, IN, Jim was the son of the late Jesse and Muriel (Sharpe) Andrew. He spent his formative years on a farm in West Point, Indiana. Jim graduated from West Lafayette High School in 1967 and earned his degree from Ball State University in 1971. He was on the varsity swim team and letter winner while he was at Ball State and was also a member of Sigma Chi Fraternity. On August 19, 1972, he married Laura McCarty in West Lafayette, who survives him.

Jim had deep roots in the Lafayette community, which he cherished dearly. In 1983, he became the owner and president of Henry Poor Lumber Company, marking the beginning of his journey as a pillar of Greater Lafayette. He served as Tippecanoe County councilman for 16 years, 8 of them as president.  A true servant of his community, he was an active board member of Camp Tecumseh, the YMCA, Indiana Lumberman’s association, Junior Achievement, Lafayette Savings Bank/Old National Bank, and countless other organizations. Throughout his life, Jim received numerous accolades for his contributions to his community, including the prestigious Sagamore of the Wabash Award, the highest recognition given by an Indiana Governor.

Beyond his professional achievements, Jim’s greatest passion lay in connecting with people. His infectious smile and ability to make everyone laugh lit up every room he entered.

However, his proudest accomplishment was his family. Alongside his beloved wife Laura, Jim is survived by his children: James A. (Michelle) Andrew Jr. of West Point, Elizabeth Andrew of Lafayette, Thomas J. (Sarah) Andrew of West Lafayette, and Caroline A. (Alex) Dane of Denver, CO. He was also a beloved grandfather to Jorja, Finley, Lulu, Lottie, and Oscar (children of Jay and Michelle); Andrew, George, Cate, and Betty (children of Elizabeth); Molly, Sophie, Meredith, and Henry (children of Tom and Sarah); as well as Nora and Mac (children of Caroline and Alex). He is also survived by his sister, Elizabeth Andrew, of Long Beach, CA. James was preceded in death by his brother, Jesse C. Andrew III.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm on Wednesday at Soller-Baker Lafayette Chapel, 400 Twyckenham Blvd. A Funeral Mass will take place at 10:00 am on Thursday, April 18, 2024, at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church, 535 West State Street, West Lafayette, with Father Patrick Baikauskas officiating. Inurnment will follow at West Point Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Wabash River Enhancement Corporation, 200 N 2nd St C, Lafayette, IN 47901 in Jim’s memory.