Mevela Dooley Andrews

First Lady Mevela Dooley Andrews, 72, lovingly known as "Janie," was born on October 3, 1952, in Brooksville, Mississippi. She graced this world with her presence until Thursday, May 22, 2025, when she peacefully departed at Baptist Memorial Hospital ~ GT in Columbus, Mississippi.

Mevela was a committed activist and community leader who made significant contributions to those around her. Her impactful career included roles as an Assistant Teacher in the Noxubee County School District, later continuing in the Columbus Municipal School District and serving as an Administrative Assistant at Joe Cook Elementary School for over 35 years. A tireless advocate for education and community service, she held leadership positions in various organizations, including the Lowndes County NAACP, where she worked to uplift her community. Mevela also served on the board of Prairie Opportunity and was a dedicated committee member for Relay for Life, leaving a legacy of compassion and commitment.

As a chartered member of Zeta Amicae of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Mevela's dedication to service was evident in all her endeavors. She also proudly took on the role of First Lady of Crossroad Missionary Baptist Church in Aberdeen, Mississippi, where she served gracefully and with dedication in leadership and ministry roles, including as Youth and Vacation Bible School Director. Her influence positively touched countless lives throughout her community.

Mevela will be deeply missed by her loving family. She is survived by her husband Pastor William L. Andrews; her sons Antonio "Dennis" (Jamie) Andrews and Marcus (Ebony) Andrews; her brother Emmitt (Virginia) Dooley; her sisters Willie Bell Sykes, Betty (Ernest) Brackett, and Mary D. Jones; as well as her cherished grandchildren Taylor Andrews, Jade Andrews, Jourdan Andrews, and Jaquavius Scott.

Mevela was preceded in death by her beloved parents Dillard Dooley and Henrietta Brown-Dooley, and her brothers Luster "Sonny" Daily and James Henry "Bubba" Dooley, along with her sisters Louise Ewing and Nezzie Barnett.

A Visitation will take place on Friday, May 30, 2025, from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM and again from 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM at Southside Missionary Baptist Church located at 100 Nashville Ferry Road East, Columbus, MS 39702. A Celebration of Life service will be held on Saturday, May 31, 2025, starting at 1:00 PM, also at Southside Missionary Baptist Church.

Mevela's life was a testament to love, service, and commitment, leaving an enduring impact on her family, friends, and all those fortunate enough to have known her. Her legacy will continue to inspire many for years to come.