Milburn David Andrews

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Milburn (David) Andrews, who left us on Thursday evening, December 12, 2024. David was born on July 8, 1937, in Little Rock, Arkansas. He considered Irving, Texas, his hometown but spent much of his life in Maryland, where he became a long-time resident of Queen Anne and Caroline Counties on the Eastern Shore. David was a remarkable man who achieved much in his 87 years. He graduated from Oriskany, New York, where he designed the high school yearbook and set the state record for the low hurdles. At the young age of three months, he made national headlines as the youngest person to ever fly on a commercial airline. His military service in the U.S. Navy aboard the USS Salmonie (a replenishment oiler) from 1956 to 1958 laid the foundation for his successful career. After attending electronics school, he went on to work for NASA, building rockets and weather balloons, before retiring as an oceanographic engineer from the Naval Research Laboratory in Washington, D.C. Throughout his career, David was honored with numerous awards for his contributions and inventions. David and his wife, Eyvonne (Rodgers) Andrews, moved to Annapolis in 1968, where they lived for a decade before settling on the Eastern Shore. Prior to his retirement, David had a passion for sailing, attending classic boat and car shows, reading history, and enjoying time with family and friends. In retirement, David found joy in fly-fishing, attending his grandchildren's sports events, and taking in the beauty of nature from his porch. He spent countless hours birdwatching, watching sunrises and sunsets, and enjoying life’s simple pleasures—like watching the grass grow, smoking his pipe and cigars, drinking Swiss mocha, and indulging in the occasional bourbon. A lifelong animal lover (except for snakes, spiders, and scorpions), he was often accompanied by his beagle, Beacon, during their daily visits to Dunkin' Donuts. His calico cat, Luna, was a beloved lap and bed companion. David also had a deep love of music, from Ray Charles to James Brown. Though he fancied himself a decent singer, those who knew him would agree he was more enthusiastic than talented. In recent years, he became a prolific Facebook poster, entertaining family, friends, and distant relatives with his sharp wit and unique sense of humor. David is survived by his wife of 65 years, Eyvonne (Rodgers) Andrews; his children: Anthony (Tony) Andrews (Patrice), Christopher (Chris) Andrews (Jane), and Cara Lizer; grandchildren Ian, Allie, Heather, Amber, Chris, Bo, John, Jessica, Charlie, and Anna; as well as numerous great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to an animal shelter of your choice in David’s memory. A Visitation will be held on Friday December 20th from 10am-11am and the Funeral Service will begin at 11am at Fellow Helfenbein and Newnam Funeral Home 106 Shamrock Road Chester MD 21619. Burial with Military Honors will immediately follow at Woodlawn Memorial Park 11365 Ocean Gateway, Easton MD 21601. With a light Luncheon at Fisherman’s Inn after burial. David’s family thanks you for your support and kindness during this difficult time. He will be greatly missed but forever in our hearts.

Milburn David Andrews

July 8, 1937 - December 12, 2024