Catherine "Kay" (Jennings) McAndrew's Obituary
Catherine “Kay” McAndrew passed away peacefully at the spiritual oasis Francis House January 27, 2020. Born on May 12, 1933 the diminutive daughter of Minooka, PA ended her amazing life that took her to California and back. Kay’s 86-year journey was marked with equal episodes of hardship and happiness. Through it all, Kay maintained an energetic outlook that reflected her personal pillars of Faith, Family, and Fitness.
Kay and her husband Jack successfully raised six children through often difficult times, demanding that each maintain strong bonds of faith and family. This was Kay’s greatest driving mission. Her vocation and commitment carried on to the next generation. Kay’s grandchildren were keenly aware that “Grandma” was checking in on their faith status whenever she inquired on “what they were up to” None of the twelve wanted to be considered “fallen away” by Kay.
“Aunt Kay” was a moniker that Catherine McAndrew cherished. She celebrated the accomplishments of her nieces and nephews and was always a sympathetic ear on their trials and moments of need.
Another role for Kay was her membership in the “Fab Four”. Kay and her siblings Gene, Rhea, and Corby held a unique bond that has served as an exemplar of sibling union. Later in life, these four showered each other with love and laughed together on cruises and excursions.
Kay was a communicant of St. Rose of Lima where she was a long-time member of the Legion of Mary and a Eucharistic Minister. She faithfully delivered communion to parishioners at Malta House, Janus Park, and the parish homebound. Often, Kay was called upon to employ her trusted rosary beads for the intercession of others in need. In addition, Kay was a member of the Funeral Support Committee preparing and serving comfort meals to grieving families.
Kay was well known by family members and friends as a bit of a fitness fanatic. Whether it was tennis in her 50’s, Zumba in her 60’s, Silver Sneakers in her 70’s or walking in her 80’s Kay was usually at the front of the line and in the last few years with Midnight at her side. Keeping up with Kay was always a challenge. Truth be told very few grandchildren were ever able to claim victory over Kay on a walk or in board games.
Kay McAndrew was blessed at the end to be surrounded by a family of faith and in a space of spiritual grace. It was a fitting finish for a faith and family driven soul. Kay is survived by her children, Jack (Mary), Mary Kay (Mike Ryan), Eileen Murray (Marty), Michael (Sarah), Patty Oshins (Mike), Maureen Cassidy (Steve); 12 grandchildren; sister, Rhea McDonnell; brother and sister-in-law, Corby and Jane Jennings, and many nieces and nephews. Kay was predeceased by her husband Jack and brother Gene Jennings.
A Funeral Mass in celebration of Kay’s life will be held at 10:00 am on Saturday, February 1, 2020 at St. Rose of Lima Church. Burial will take place at North Syracuse Cemetery. Family and friends may call from 4:00 - 7:00 pm on Friday, January 31, 2020 at THOMAS J. PIRRO JR. FUNERAL HOME, 3401 Vickery Rd. (corner of Buckley Rd.) North Syracuse, NY.
Special thanks are given to the loving and compassionate caregivers at Francis House. In lieu of flowers, donations in Kay’s memory may be made to Francis House, 108 Michaels Ave., Syracuse, NY 13208 or St. Rose of Lima Church, 409 S. Main St., North Syracuse, NY 13212.
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