Joseph J. Andrews Jr., 76

Joseph J. Andrews Jr., known affectionately to family and friends as "Baby Joe" and "Shakey," passed away on July 16, 2026, in Providence, Rhode Island. He was 76 years old. Born on March 9, 1950, in Wareham, Massachusetts, he was the son of the late Joseph J. Andrews Sr. and the late Dorothy Gonslaves Andrews.

Baby Joe grew up in Wareham, where he built lasting friendships and deep roots in the community he would always call home. After graduating from Wareham High School, he answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Navy, where he did basic training in the Great Lakes and was stationed in Norfolk VA.His military service instilled in him a lifelong dedication to his fellow veterans, and in the years that followed, he became deeply involved with local veterans services, advocating for and supporting those who had also served.

After discharge he returned home Baby Joe was involved in a life-changing car accident in Onset with one of his childhood friends, an event that would alter the course of his life. The subsequent passing of his beloved mother, Dot, compounded these hardships and left a void he carried with him always.

Despite the challenges he faced, Baby Joe remained a good man with a big heart. He was known for his warmth and genuine care for others. He had a passion for drag racing, particularly when events came to his hometown of Wareham. Many will remember him cruising through town in his beloved van, affectionately named "Spaced Out." He also explored his creative side through leather crafting, a hobby he pursued with characteristic enthusiasm.

Joseph was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph J. “Josie” Andrews Sr. and Dorothy Gonslaves Andrews; his brother, Fred Gomes; and his sister, Lorraine Gately and brother Richard M.”RIKKII” Andrews and is survived by his son and daughter in-law Scott & Marie Douglas along with nieces and nephews and numerous cousins and extended family and friends who will carry his memory forward.

Funeral and memorial service details will be determined at a later date and announced to family and friends.

Baby Joe now rests in the peace that eluded him in his later years, reunited at last with his mother, Dot, whom he missed so terribly. May he find comfort in her embrace once more, held gently in the grace of God.