Heritage

Andrews Mortuary began in 1850 as Woolvin Cabinetmakers and Undertakers, supplying caskets and funeral services in the pre Civil war years in Wilmington. The business continued operations under the Woolvin family for many years, until Leon P. Andrews came to work there following his service in the US Army after World War I. Soon after joining the company, Andrews became a partner in the new Woolvin-Andrews and became the sole owner in 1925. The business was located on Princess St. Between 2nd and 3rd during these years. In 1934 Leon Andrews opened his new and thoroughly modern funeral facility on the corner of 3rd and Red Cross Streets. 

In 1960, Richard C. Andrews, son of Leon, moved Andrews Mortuary to its current location on the corner of 17th and Market Streets. Originally built as a home in the 1920�s the Georgian style structure has been added on to and remodeled many times but still maintains the charm and feel of an old southern home. In 1982, a crematory was added to this location making it Wilmington�s first funeral home to offer this service.

Richard Andrews, continuing his focus on providing personal service, made the decision to open a second location and in 1987, Andrews Valley Chapel was opened at 4108 S. College Rd. This facility, although more modern in design, allowed residents in the southern part of Wilmington more convenience while maintaining the high standards of personal service Andrews has come to be associated with.

In 1995, Andrews Hampstead Chapel was opened. Located on Highway 17 N, just a few miles north of Hampstead, the Chapel is located next to Sealawn Memorial Park, which is also owned and operated by the Andrews family. With three chapels and a cemetery the Andrews family now consisting of Richard Andrews, Sr., Richard Andrews, Jr, J. Scot Andrews, and Laura Andrews Gainey continue the tradition of service that began so many years ago.