Beverly Andrews

Beverly "Bev" Ann (Brooks) Andrews, born July 3, 1933, in Pierre, S.D., was a woman of boundless energy, love, and community spirit. Her parents Thomas Mitchell Brooks and Anna F.W. Eggers laid the foundation for a life marked by dedication, passion, and creative pursuits.

Every summer until she turned 14 was spent amidst the serene landscapes of the country south of Murdo, cherishing moments with her grandparents, Anna C. (Dethmann) and Peter Albert Eggers, and her aunt Mabel “Mame” Eggers. Church played a large part in her life, where she sang and played piano. She was a member of Job’s Daughters.

After those 14 summers, Beverly's journey into the professional world commenced when her mother helped her start a job at Jones County State Bank. Her boss there referred to her as "our Miss Brooks,” a reference to a popular radio program which reflected her grace and presence. 

On April 19, 1953, she married Carroll Alson Andrews, and their union brought forth two sons, Thomas Henry in April 1956 and Richard Allen in March 1960. She continued working at the bank after each son was born.

Later on, fueled by the desire to take on a leadership role and receive recognition for the great work she could do, she went door to door to gain community support then was elected Jones County Treasurer. She was inspired by her mother's county clerk roles and her aunt Mabel's hard work as County Superintendent of Schools. She immediately proved herself more than capable, leading to more opportunities within the community for herself and other women.

She contributed her bookkeeping and secretarial skills to various establishments, including the Methodist Church, the Triple H. Truck Stop, Murdo Cemetery, Dean's 66, and others. Her commitment extended to the Order of Eastern Star, where she dedicated 72 years of service, the American Legion Auxiliary, and the Methodist Church of Murdo, where she was a layman.

She was also a member since childhood of the West River Earth Science Society of Murdo until they disbanded. Bev's passion for rockhounding left an indelible mark, influencing her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She cherished all the moments and memories from vacations, especially motorcycle trips with her husband and friends, camping, and retreats to their Black Hills cabin. She diligently recorded these moments, big and small, with her camera in

hand.

She trained as a Master Gardener and had a deep love for oil painting, both passions which she shared with her grandchildren. Family gatherings held a special place in Bev's heart, particularly Thanksgivings at the Dahlke ranch.

Known for her affection for animals, Bev never found herself without feline and canine companions. The family was especially fond of dachshunds. Her love for these loyal companions added another layer of warmth and joy to her life.

Retirement around 2011 did not slow her down. She established a home on her grandparents' homestead where she continued her dream of oil painting in her new home studio. During this time she was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, which progressed until her death.

In 2016, due to advancing health issues, Bev moved to Pierre to live with her son Thomas. In

early summer 2023, she transitioned to Avantara Pierre, for long term care and, later, hospice.

On January 26, 2024, at 7:33 a.m., she peacefully departed this world. Her legacy lives on through her sons, Thomas (Pierre, S.D.) and Richard (Jon Hilscher; North Bend, Wash.), her siblings Marsha Titus and Duane (Glee) Brooks; cousin Betty Lou Mann; six grandchildren: Jessica (Allen Day) Andrews, Justin Andrews, Joshua Andrews, Jocelyn (Ferdinand) Bergh, Jordan (Alina) Andrews, and Jorja (Caleb Larson) Andrews; and six great-grandchildren.

She is preceded in death by her beloved husband Carroll, parents Thomas Mitchell Brooks and Anna F.W. Eggers, aunts Florence (Ludwig Dahlke) and Mabel Eggers, and her cousin Earl Dahlke. Beverly's impact on her community, her love for family, and her enduring spirit will be remembered with gratitude and love.

Memorial services will be in Murdo at the Methodist Church at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, March 8, 2024. Visitation is Thursday, March 7, at 7:00 p.m. at the church.