Andrew Ivory, Jr., affectionately known as “Gump,” was born on October 16, 1950, to the late
Andrew and LeeAnna (Clark) Ivory in Grand Junction, Tennessee. He was the fourth eldest of
eight children. He was preceded in death by his sister, Loistine Simmons, and his brothers,
Calvin Ivory, Walter Lee Clark, and Farmell Ivory.
Andrew confessed his life to Christ at an early age. He was baptized at New Revelations
Baptist Church by the late Pastor William Freeman.
Andrew was educated through the Cleveland Municipal School District and later successfully
completed the program at Cleveland Job Corps.
Andrew was a hardworking man and truly a “jack of all trades.” He especially excelled in
construction work. Whenever someone presented him with a task that needed to be done, he
quickly formed his crew and got right to work. He never hesitated to help relatives and friends
with house repairs and improvements, always willing to lend his hands and expertise wherever
needed.
Andrew was also known as a sharp dresser who loved to “get clean” for parties, family
gatherings, and special occasions. He enjoyed dancing, grocery shopping, and spending time
with those he loved. Above all else, he deeply loved his beloved “Bren.”
Andrew met Brenda Jackson in the early 1970s, and they had been dancing through life
together ever since. Their years together were far too many to count, though time somehow
made them feel far too short.
Andrew shared a special bond with his family and treasured every opportunity to gather and
spend quality time with them. He especially cherished the close relationship he had with his little
brother, “Bern.”
Andrew peacefully departed this life on Sunday, May 24, 2026, at Cleveland Clinic Hospital, with
his devoted wife, Brenda, by his side.
To carry on his legacy, Andrew leaves behind his beloved wife, Brenda Jackson; his darling
children, Surrina Ivory, Andrew Ivory, Antwon Jackson, Antonio Jackson, and Andrew Jackson;
his two loving sisters, Gloria Jean Nobles and Evelyn Nobles; his baby brother, Bernard Ivory;
and his nephew/brother, William Owens (Erica).
He also leaves to cherish his memory one aunt, Denise Lacey; his cherished grandchildren,
Myesha, Tawanna, Antonio (“Lil’ Man”), Anthony, Andea, Andre, Tira, and LaeQuan; and his
treasured great-grandchildren, Elle, Cory, Parker, Kai, Kyah, Ashton, JuJu, TayTay, Cris, Tatum,
Harlen, Jay, Martez, Trayvon, and one precious blessing on the way.
Andrew also leaves behind his best friend, Tupie; his work partner, Leon; his right-hand man,
Larry; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and dear friends who will forever cherish
his memory.