James Job Andrews, of Arlington, Virginia, passed away peacefully on September 24, 2026, surrounded by those he loved, at the age of 85. Born on December 5, 1940, in Brierley Hill, United Kingdom, James lived a remarkable life filled with intellect, adventure, humor, and deep devotion to his family.

James graduated with a B.S. in Civil Engineering from Queen Mary College, University of London, and went on to build a distinguished career that took him across London, South Africa, Central America, and the United States. Throughout his career, he worked on notable engineering projects, bringing skill, ingenuity, and vision to large-scale undertakings that included harbors and submarines. In Costa Rica, he took on the adventure of building his own hotel. Among the accomplishments he held most dear was helping to build a tunnel beneath the River Thames in London, a remarkable feat of engineering that remained a special source of pride throughout his life. His work reflected both his technical expertise and his willingness to take on ambitious challenges wherever they might lead.

Beyond his profession, James embraced life with enthusiasm and curiosity. He traveled widely and approached the world with the spirit of an adventurer and a lifelong learner. He valued education deeply and remained curious and engaged throughout his life, always eager to learn something new. He played soccer, ran marathons, and enjoyed ping pong before later falling in love with pickleball. He had been a choirboy, was passionate about theater and acting in plays, and enjoyed visiting art museums and going to the movies. He loved watching soccer, spending time in pubs, and never lost his fondness for sweets.

To know James was to know someone larger than life. He said what was on his mind, was unapologetically himself, and had a remarkable ability to make people laugh. His charisma, warmth, and gift for conversation drew people in, and he delighted in good company and lively discussion. He had stories to tell, opinions to share, and a way of making even an ordinary conversation memorable. Those who knew him will remember his humor, his unmistakable personality, and the energy and warmth he brought to the people around him.

For all he accomplished in his work and all the places he traveled, James remained deeply devoted to his family. His greatest pride was his two children, Clara and Marc, who were his pride and joy. He is survived by his daughter, Clara Andrews, and his son, Marc Andrews, who carry forward his strength, wit, curiosity, and love. He was preceded in death by his mother, Lily Andrews; his father, James Andrews; and his sister, Pearl Andrews.

James will be remembered for the life he lived fully and on his own terms—for his curiosity, his adventurous spirit, his humor, his accomplishments, and the love he had for his family. He leaves behind a lifetime of stories, laughter, and memories that will remain with all those who knew and loved him. He will be deeply missed.