John David Andress, age 77, of Madrid, passed away on April 9, 2026. He was born on August 21, 1948, in Madrid, Alabama, the son of the late John Isaac Andress and Lena Pitts Andress.
In addition to his parents, he was also preceded in death by his grandparents, Dr. David Gustavus Andress and Johnie Dooling Andress, and William Thomas Pitts and Lena Mae Pitts, as well as his sister, Selena Andress Bond. Their memories remained an important part of his life, and he carried the values they instilled in him throughout the years.
John David is survived by his wife of 56 years, Shirley Colarusso Andress, who shared with him a long and devoted marriage filled with faith, family, and steadfast companionship. He is also survived by his daughter, Marilyn Andress Evans and her husband Jeff of Opelika, and his son, David Brian Andress and his wife Amber of Madrid. He leaves behind a loving family of grandchildren, Gabe Newman and his wife, Carolyn, Kaylin Andress, Emma Andress, Ashton Evans, Landon Andress, John Carter Evans, and Anna Evans, along with great-grandchildren Graham Herman, Mills Newman, John Walt Newman, and Emmie Chase Herman. He is also survived by his brothers, Jimmy Mack Andress of Madrid and Thomas Gustavus Andress and his wife Tracey of Madrid, as well as his brothers-in-law, Ricky Bond of Madrid and Richard Colarusso and his wife Pam of Madrid; several nieces, nephews, cousins and special friends, including Tony Mixon and Emory Waddell.
John David graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree from Troy University, an achievement that reflected his commitment to learning and personal growth. He served his country in the United States Army, and later dedicated 20 years of service to the Dothan Fire Department before retiring. In addition to his work as a firefighter, he also spent time as a teacher, sharing his knowledge and experience with others. His life of service was a testament to his character, and he was known as a man who could be counted on in times of need.
When he was off duty from the fire department, John David worked as a handyman in remodeling and construction. He had a natural ability to fix, build, and improve, and he used those skills generously for the benefit of others. John David was a faithful member of Madrid Baptist Church, where his presence and devotion were valued. He also enjoyed hunting and fishing, and he occasionally played golf when time allowed. He was an avid Alabama football fan and took great pride in cheering on his team. Above all, he treasured time spent with his family, especially his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Being a “Paw Paw” was one of the greatest joys of his life, and he embraced that role with warmth, patience, and love.
Funeral services for John David will be held at 11 AM, Tuesday, April 14, 2026 at Madrid Baptist Church with burial following in the adjoining cemetery. The family will receive friends from 10 AM until 11 AM, prior to the service at the church.
The family would like to say a special thank you to the Madrid Community, Madrid Baptist Church, Southern Care Hospice and Nurse Donna, along with Cornerstone Caregiving.
