Andrew Stephen Porter

Andrew Stephen Porter, 25, was taken from this world far too soon on September 12, 2025, returning to the natural world that brought him joy.

Born on October 12, 1999, in Charlottesville, Virginia, Andrew is deeply loved and survived by his fiancée, Bridget Murphy, with whom he shared dreams of a life filled with adventure and joy. He was the devoted son of Greg and Lisa Porter, who nurtured his curiosity, ambitions, kindness, and love of the outdoors. Andrew shared an especially close bond with his brothers-his older brother, Matthew, and his twin, Ryan-cherishing the laughter, support, and memories they created together throughout their lives.

He is also remembered with love by his grandparents: Hershall and Sue Porter, Steve and Annie Runkle, and Mike and Betsy Kingsbury.

Andrew was and will always be cherished by his aunts and uncles-Lynne Runkle, Todd Runkle and Christopher Lee, Lori and Malcolm Meistrell, and Sam Runkle and Maisie Ide; his cousins-Malcolm, Abby, Walker, and Ryder Meistrell, Jack Porter, Caroline and Kyle Morrissey, and Charlotte Porter; and his many dear friends.

He is preceded in death by his Uncle Hershall Porter, Jr.

From a young age, Andrew was happiest when outside - climbing, biking, fishing, swimming, playing baseball, and taking on every adventure possible with his brothers and friends. He was a gifted athlete whose love of sports brought him countless opportunities to compete, grow, and form many of the lifelong friendships he cherished deeply. He had an energy that drew people to him and a calming presence that steadied those around him. His mischievous smile was always a hint that fun and laughter were never far away. He was a friend to all and an enemy to none.

Andrew's interests were wide-ranging but always grounded in creativity and movement. A skilled woodworker, his love of carpentry grew over the years into a true craft - testament to his drive, ingenuity, and refusal to ever sit idle. Andrew was an avid fly fisherman, snowboarder, and hunter. He found both peace and excitement in the rivers and mountains alike, embracing the outdoors with the same zeal that defined his life - never wanting to miss a single moment.

Andrew graduated from James Madison University in 2022 with a B.A. in Business and was a proud member of Sigma Epsilon fraternity alongside his twin brother, Ryan. During his freshman year, he met the love of his life, Bridget, beginning a beautiful chapter together. After graduation, Andrew and Bridget moved to Montana, where they embraced countless adventures before eventually settling in Asheville, North Carolina, with their beloved dog, Rudy. There, Andrew thrived as a project manager for a home renovation company, combining his work ethic with his passion for building and creating.

Though the loss of Andrew is immeasurable, so too is the gift of having known him. He was a gentle soul with a love for the outdoors, a zest for living, a humble spirit, and a generous heart. Andrew lived with authenticity, humor, and wonder, leaving behind a legacy of love, adventure, and joy. His spirit lives on in those he touched and the memories he created. Andrew's life reminds us to live without fear, to seek out new experiences, to laugh often, and to love deeply.

May Andrew rest in Eternal peace, and always be with the ones he loved.

In honor of Andrew, a Celebration of Life will be held at 1:00pm Sunday, October 5, 2025, at Panorama Natural Burial at 3550 Reas Ford Lane, Earlysville, VA 22936. A legacy book will be available at the service for guests to share their fondest memories and photos of Andrew. In lieu of flowers, the family is making arrangements for memorial contributions in Andrew's name, so that his spirit and kindness may continue to touch others. This information will be shared soon.