Andrea L McCarthy

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Andrea Lauren McCarthy, beloved wife, mother, daughter, sister, and friend, who passed away on January 27, 2025, at the age of 47. Born on December 12, 1977, Andrea lived a life full of love, laughter, and compassion, leaving a lasting impact on everyone she met.
Andrea was married to her loving husband, Scott McCarthy, on August 12, 2000. Together, they created a beautiful life filled with joy and shared memories. She was a proud mother to her children, Kaylin, Abigail, Jenna, and Scotty, cherishing every moment as she watched them grow. Whether it was exploring the city, enjoying lunch, or seeking out new adventures together, Andrea was always eager to create new experiences with her family.
Andrea's life was defined by her deep love for others. She found comfort and joy in spending time with her mother, sharing meals with friends, and creating delicious meals in the kitchen-especially her beloved spaghetti. Tulips were her favorite flower, and she loved spending time near the beach, particularly in New Buffalo, Michigan, where she found peace and happiness.
Though Andrea had many interests and hobbies, she was perhaps best known for her love of teaching. For more than 13 years, she devoted her heart and soul to shaping young minds as a Kindergarten teacher at Homer 33C School, Goodings Grove Elementary. Her warm and caring nature made her a beloved educator, and she touched the lives of countless children and families. Andrea's passion for education was rooted in her own academic journey, having attended St. Bede Grade School, Mother McAuley, and St. Xavier University, where she earned her degree in teaching.
A proud parishioner of St. Dennis Catholic Church, Andrea found strength in her faith, which was a central part of her life. She also had an eclectic mix of interests, from her undying devotion to country music and Elvis Presley-whom she always believed was still alive-to her fondness for burgers, bloody marys, and the occasional indulgence in getting "typsy" at the campground in Morris. While she was quite the nap enthusiast, she was also famously known for her dislike of baking.
Andrea will be remembered as a warm, loving, and fun-spirited woman who made everyone around her feel special. Her legacy lives on in the hearts of her family, friends, and the students she taught over the years. Here to carry on Andrea's legacy are her husband, Scott; her children, Kaylin, Abigail, Jenna, and Scotty; brother, Jeff (Maggie) Goc; cousin, Jeanine Solinski; mother-in-law, JoAnne McCarthy; sisters-in-law, Shannon (Kevin) Slattery; Sheri (Mike) Sadler; Stephanie (Jim) Kendzior; and a host of nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins and friends who loved her deeply.
Andrea's loved ones, who welcome her into the heavenly kingdom are her beloved mother, Nancy Goc; father, Timothy Goc; and father-in-law, Dennis McCarthy.
To honor and celebrate Andrea's life and to cherish her memories, we invite her family and friends to a memorial visitation to be held on Wednesday, February 5, 2025, at Tezak's Home to Celebrate Life (1211 Plainfield Road, Joliet) from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. You are invited to continue to honor her and the family by meeting for a memorial mass the following day, Thursday, February 6, 2025, at St. Dennis Catholic Church (1214 S. Hamilton Street, Lockport) beginning at 10:00 a.m. Committal services will follow at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery in Elwood.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Andrea's memory to: Saint Jude Children's Research Hospital
Rest in peace, Andrea. You will forever be in our hearts.
Services entrusted to Hayes Funeral and Cremation Services, Mark Cepon, Funeral Director and Associate.
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