James Henry Andrews, of Lompoc, California, passed away on May 16, 2024. He was born on December 9, 1944, in Lufkin, Texas, where he grew up. He graduated from Hudson High School in 1963. He was quite an athlete and lettered in basketball and baseball all four years. He also participated in two of the school's drama productions.

James joined the United States Air Force in August of 1963. He proudly served his country for 27 years. He retired in 1990. It was while stationed at Vandenberg Air Force Base that James met Nancy Preece. They were married at the base chapel on August 11, 1978. The Air Force moved James and our family throughout his career and were stationed on various bases in California, Louisiana, Illinois, and the Island of Guam.

After retiring, James worked for Mercury Aviation in Santa Barbara as the Line Manager. He enjoyed meeting several prominent people. He was very proud to have met Margaret Thatcher, then Prime Minister of Great Britian. The tie tack that Barbara Bush gave him when Air Force Two landed was one of his prized possessions. During this time, he also worked for the U.S. Forest Service as their Line Manager during the Painted Cave and Gap Fires. He was given the compliment of being, "the best at servicing and fueling" their aircraft.

James is survived by his wife of 46 years, Nancy, his daughters Michelle Carter (Charles) of Dodd City, Texas; Jeanette Andrews (Shannon) of Henderson, Nevada; his sons Shane Andrews (Claudia) of Harahan, Louisiana; Shawn Andrews (Tina) of Honey Grove, Texas; his 12 grandchildren Marc, Ethan, Corrine and Cooper Andrews; Clifford, Amber, and Lucus (Tomi Lee) Lappin; Daniel Carter, Brandon (Minerva) Childers, Ariel Jones; James Roy Andrews and Valarie Hickman; numerous great grandchildren, nephews and nieces; and his constant canine companions, Dakota and Kiowa.

At the request of the family there will only be a private service. In lieu of flowers, kindly donate to your favorite charity.