Joseph Andrews Obituary

Joseph Francis Andrews, 73, a lifelong resident of Duryea and most recently of Brooks Estates in Pittston, passed away peacefully on March 5, 2026, surrounded by those who loved him.

Joseph lived by a simple but profound conviction — that he was among the luckiest and most blessed men in the world. It was a belief reflected in everything he did. He possessed a rare gift for finding the good in others and in every circumstance life presented, and he moved through the world with quiet kindness, genuine gratitude, and an open and generous spirit.

He devoted 35 years to elementary education in the Pittston Area School District, a career he embraced with whole-hearted dedication. Joseph understood that teaching was far more than instruction; it was an opportunity to encourage, inspire, and shape young lives. Many of his former students carried the memory of his warmth and encouragement long after leaving his classroom.

Following his teaching career, Joseph turned his attention to another enduring passion — the art of floral design. He opened Floral Express on Main Street in Duryea, bringing creativity, beauty, and a personal touch to the community he loved for so many years. In time, he discovered yet another way to connect with people when he joined American Eagle Airlines as a customer service representative at Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport. His natural warmth made him ideally suited to welcoming travelers and easing their journeys. Even after his formal tenure there, he continued to serve the airport community as a volunteer with the AVP Ambassador Program and gave generously of his time as a volunteer at Geisinger Wyoming Valley.

His commitment to faith was among the defining features of his life. Joseph was honored to serve as the founding president of the board of Saints Francis and Clare Progressive Catholic Church in Pennsylvania, helping to lay the foundation of a parish community that meant a great deal to him.

Joseph Andrews will be remembered for the warmth he extended to everyone he met, for the optimism he never surrendered, and for the quiet but lasting mark he left on students, neighbors, travelers, and friends alike. He was, in every sense he intended, a blessed man.

Joseph is survived by his brother, Michael Andrews of Duryea, and by his beloved life partner, Justin Perry of Branchburg, N.J., whose companionship and love were a source of profound joy in his life.

In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes memorial donations to Saints Francis and Clare Progressive Catholic Church, 3343 Greenwood Ave., Moosic, PA 18507.

Arrangements are by Bernard J. Piontek Funeral Home Inc., 204 Main St., Duryea.

To leave condolences for Joseph's family, please visit www.piontekfuneralhome.com.