Andre S. Townsend

Andre Stephon Townsend was born early Wednesday morning February 8, 1984, to Wendy R. Townsend and Stepney Rudolph.  Andre’s spiritual relationship with God was introduced and nurtured at a very early age. Andre began his educational journey at Episcopal child development center in the Pre-K Program, and eventually throughout Duval County Public School System.

Andre graduated from, and his allegiance was to William M Raines High School as a Viking. As a youth he was very active in 4-H Program traveling with the exchange club, winning numerous awards in 4-H Expanded Nutrition and Education Program (EFNEP), 4-H Public Speaking and Project Competitions, attending 4-H Summer Camp, and eventually becoming a youth summer camp counselor for several years.  His love for 4-H and his youth experiences afforded him the opportunity to become employed with UF Extension Office as a 4-H Program Assistant where he served in that capacity for several years before moving on to other youth serving agencies.  His love for teaching and experience with youth also opened a door for him to become employed with YWCA as summer camp counselor, which provoked him to set up Essentials in Leadership Youth Development Training Program a hands-on program that introduced youth to hone their leadership skills.  He often was called on to bring his highly energetic leadership style to train youth using his Essentials in Leadership curricula he developed for the City of Jacksonville, Parks and Recreation Department for their Summer Enrichment youth volunteers. His approach and his relatability to the youth always earned him “We like Mr. Andre”, “I had the best time with Mr. Andre”, “Mr. Andre made the training fun” as reflected on the youth training surveys.

Andre was small in stature, but powerful and larger than life in how he lived.  He began his career at Best Buy as Appliance Manager and in various roles of responsibility most recently as home-based Customer Service Care and Support however, when Andre worked in-store he would often bringing his serious yet witty demeanor to his co-workers and his impeccable customer service to in-store patrons.  Andre worked for Regions Bank for a couple of years before transitioning back to Best Buy in 2020. Andre briefly worked for the State of Florida at Family Nurturing Center of Florida, his 37 years have netted him many loving and adoring friends, and co-workers that will miss him deeply.  His most recent relocation to Orlando, Florida gave him the peace to live without regret, and confirmed his own inner strength to go after his goals.  He was full of Wisdom beyond his years and displayed thought provoking dialogue, and wise counsel to family and friends.  He was the “go-to” person to discuss any situation without judgement.

Everyone that knew Andre knew he LOVED Toni Braxton and he called himself “Andre Braxton”. He also loved all aspects of fashion whether it was home interior or clothing, he was unique in his style of dress to reflect whom he was as an individual.  He also was a “food snob” or “foodie” as some may say.  He craved the exotic experiences of fine dining to mom-and-pop establishments he would go anywhere to find good food.  He often enjoyed these culinary experiences with his best friends LJ, Wesley, and Kendall to name a few. He loved to travel, love theme parks where he was able to be a kid again, and he loved to attend concerts especially if his favorite recording artists were putting on a show.

Andre proceeded in death Grandfather: Onnie W. Townsend, Grandmother: Miriam D. Townsend. 

He leaves to celebrate his life, Mother: Wendy R. Townsend (Willie Nicholas) Sister: Candis Brown (Brandon Jarvis) and Brothers: Brandon Townsend and Trace Rudolph

Great Aunts: Annie Bayham (Tyrone) and Henrietta Smith 

Uncles: Kenneth Johnson, Wayne Townsend (Tiara)

Aunts: Vicki Preston, Francine O’Neill (George)

Uncle Dre’ babies: Khaliyah Hannah, Kevia Mabry, Baby Brandon, and Skai Townsend

Cousins:  Kenny Johnson, Donnesha Preston, Desmond Preston, Chris Everett, Jessica O’Neill, George O’Neill and Sarah Townsend, Omari Scurry and Neveah Townsend,

Without a doubt, Andre’s transition from this earthly realm leaves to mourn and celebrate a host of family and friends.  Nevertheless, his Spirit will forever live on in each of us.

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