Pauline Andrews

Pauline "Polly" Andrews, a beacon of love and strength, gently took God's hand to her eternal resting place on October 30, 2023 at the age of 90. She was born in Cambridge Springs, PA on September 16, 1933, the daughter of Ignatius (James) Yurcak and Josephine Oskwarek Yurcak.
Pauline's life was a beautiful tapestry of love, commitment, faith and boundless generosity. After being crowned FFA Queen in 1950, Polly married her high school sweetheart, Donald James Andrews, at Camp Atterbury in Indiana, PA on December 23, 1950, and they raised four children: Donna, Dana, Diana, and Sally.
She is survived by her beloved children: Donna Cummings, Dana Andrews (Pam Francis), Diana Andrews Musarra (August Jay), and Sally Hershelman (Gary). Pauline cherished her role as a mother and grandmother, and her legacy lives on in her treasured grandchildren: Matthew Cummings (Alyson Amendola), Jennifer Hopkins (David), Ryan Chylinski (MaryLiz), Andrew Hershelman, Emily Chylinski (Scott Kuiperi), Aaron Hershelman (Stamie), and Andrew Musarra. The joy in her life continued to grow with her three precious great-grandchildren: Conor Amendola, Finley Hopkins, Dax Hopkins, and many cherished nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Don, brothers: James, Gus, Wendell, Andrew, Raymond, and William, sisters Ann and Agnes, and son-in-law, Michael Cummings. She now joins them in God's eternal peace.
Polly's commitment to her family was awe-inspiring. She personified values of love, strength, kindness, and resilience that we all strive to emulate. Her presence brought warmth and compassion to all who were fortunate enough to know her, and the heavens will shine even brighter having received her beautiful soul.
Polly was more than just a mother to her own children. She was a "mother to all," leaving an indelible mark on countless lives. Polly and Don opened their hearts and home to 12 newborn babies as foster parents, ensuring they were nurtured until they found their loving adopted families. Later she worked at Saint Vincent Hospital in the infants section, touching the lives of many more children and families.
In addition to her dedication to family and children, Polly was a gifted crafter, creating beautiful arrangements and enchanting holiday decorations. Gardening was her passion, and her stunning purple Clematis flowers earned her recognition in the Erie Times-News.
Polly was gifted at anything that she chose to pursue, from piano playing to learning to speak and understand Polish in her 50s. An avid genealogist, she delved deep into family history, meticulously documenting every detail, bravely traveling twice to Europe to locate and meet relatives. Her commitment to preserving the past and reconnecting with long-lost relatives is both admirable and heartwarming.
Polly was a Practical Nurse at Millcreek Community Hospital for many years caring for those in need. She also worked as a baker for Albion IGA and in the meat department with her husband Don. She also proudly graduated from clown college, creating the beloved character known as
"Miss Violet" who volunteered at local events and parades, bringing joy and laughter to all who crossed her path.
Pauline's legacy is one of love, generosity, and resilience. Her loving memory will forever be cherished by her family, friends, and all those who were fortunate to know her. Pauline's spirit lives on in the hearts of those she loved and those who loved her in return.
We thank Elmwood Gardens for their loving care.
Friends may call on Thursday, November 2, 2023 at the Kloecker Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc. 2502 Sassafras St. from 4pm-7pm and are invited to the Prayer Service the following morning, Friday, November 3, 2023 at 9:15am at the Funeral Home, followed by the Funeral Mass at St. Patrick's Church at 10am. Burial will be at Laurel Hill Cemetery. Send condolences to www.kloeckerfuneralhome.com.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Diabetes Association P.O. Box 7023 Merrifield, VA 22116-7023, and Julia Hospice and Palliative Care 4906 Richmond St. Erie, PA 16509.