Pawcatuck - Denzel Lester Andrews Jr., loving husband and devoted father, passed away peacefully Sept. 23, 2025, after a brave, long-term battle with congestive heart failure. He was 83 years old.
Born Feb. 12, 1942, in New London, Denny was the second child of Helen Perka Andrews and Denzel L. Andrews Sr. His early years were marked by academic and athletic achievement at Fitch High School, where he distinguished himself in track and basketball and formed lifelong friendships.
Denny’s academic prowess earned him a full scholarship to Northeastern University, where he graduated with honors, receiving a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering. He later pursued graduate studies at the University of Connecticut, earning an advanced degree in mechanical engineering.
It was during his college years that fate intervened in the form of a blind date in Boston, where Denny met Shirley. Their courtship led to marriage April 24,1965 - one that would span an extraordinary 60 years. Together, they built a wonderful life in Stonington, raising three daughters and creating countless cherished memories.
Denny’s professional dedication was exemplified by his successful 43-year career at Electric Boat General Dynamics, where he served as a senior engineering specialist. He was awarded the Distinguished Shipbuilder honor for his 40 years of service. His commitment and reliability made him a valued colleague and mentor before his well-earned retirement in 2006.
While his professional achievements were significant, those who knew Denny best understood that his greatest pride came from his role as a husband and father. He was a cornerstone of Christ Episcopal Church in Westerly, R.I., where he served as a Eucharistic minister, and held leadership roles on the vestry, finance and property committees. His faith provided him comfort and guidance throughout his life and was a source of strength for his family.
Denny possessed a wonderfully dry sense of humor and a gift for perfectly timed one-liners that could fill a room with laughter. His wit, combined with his steadfast dependability and dedication to those he loved, made him not just a beloved family member, but a treasured friend to many.
He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Shirley Andrews; three daughters, Stephanie Clark, Susan McGurkin and her husband Michael McGurkin, and Alison Andrews Reyes and her husband Carlos Reyes; grandsons, Jonathan Clark and Sebastian Reyes; his sister, Marsha Cedrone; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents.
A memorial service celebrating Denny’s life will be held at 11a.m. Thursday, Oct. 9, at Christ Church in Westerly, R.I. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to Christ Episcopal Church in Westerly, R.I., in his memory.
Denny’s legacy lives on in the love he shared, the values he instilled, and the lives he touched with his kindness, humor and unwavering strength. He will be profoundly missed and lovingly remembered.