Leigh-Anne Andrews (née Johnson) passed peacefully at Mercy Medical Center in the early morning of September 29. She spent her final days surrounded by family and friends, who traveled from near and far to ease Leigh-Anne’s transition and share their love.
Born on May 8, 1984, Leigh-Anne grew up in Chicopee and graduated from Chicopee Comprehensive High School. Her infectious laugh (some might say cackle), unshakable sense of self, and incredible kindness and loyalty brought joy and light to the world around her.
In 2009, Leigh-Anne married her love, Ryan Andrews. Together, Leigh and Ryan became the sun around which an entire universe orbited. They brought people together and created a community where everyone felt loved, accepted, and welcomed. With Ryan by her side, Leigh-Anne enjoyed spending time by the ocean, seeing live music, doing jigsaw puzzles, playing games, cooking, hosting, and relaxing at home with her favorite people and pets—along with plenty of salty snacks and comfy clothes.
Throughout her life, Leigh-Anne frequently spent time in Boston, being treated for cystic fibrosis. She was also the recipient of a lung transplant that extended her time on earth. In the years after her transplant, she traveled; competed in the World Jigsaw Puzzle Championship in Spain; became an aunt; and experienced countless small, beautiful moments that her loved ones will forever hold close. Although her time with us was too short, her impact is immeasurable. Her laughter, light, and bravery will continue to shine through the many people whose lives she touched.
Leigh-Anne was preceded in death by her father, Frank Johnson. She will be missed beyond words by her husband Ryan, and their dog Ellie; her mother Debbie Johnson; her sister and brother-in-law Lyndsay and Anthony Neffinger; and her niece Lillian, who brought boundless sunshine to her auntie YeeYee’s days. She also leaves many extended family members and close friends who feel her loss deeply.
Instead of flowers, please donate to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, and please consider becoming an organ donor.