Pauline “Polly” Frances Andrews

JAY – Pauline “Polly” Frances Andrews, a vibrant soul known for her loving nature, infectious laughter, and amiable personality, passed away peacefully of natural causes on Feb. 2, 2026, in Farmington. Born on April 20, 1922, the daughter of the late, John H. and Mabel T. (Kane) McCarthy in Livermore Falls, she was a beacon of joy and resilience throughout her 103 years.

Polly lived in Livermore Falls until the 1930’s, she then moved to Cape Elizabeth with a relative’s friend. Here her educational journey culminated with her graduation from Cape Elizabeth High School in 1943.

She went on to have a diverse career path, working as a waitress, a chocolate dipper, and eventually finding her calling as a bundle sample technician at International Paper in Niagara Falls, N.Y. Her colleagues knew her as a dedicated and friendly face who brought warmth and efficiency to her work environment.

In July 1948, Polly married the love of her life, Ernest “Fred” Andrews, in a beautiful ceremony in Portland. Together, they embarked on a life full of love and adventure, living in Niagara Falls where they raised their family until 1966. The family then moved to Jay coinciding with the construction of International Paper’s Androscoggin Mill, a place that would become a significant chapter in Polly’s life.

An embodiment of the phrase “energizer bunny,” Polly’s boundless energy and enthusiasm earned her this affectionate nickname. Her interests were an extension of her vibrant personality.

A lover of travel, she cherished the trips taken with her daughter, Robin. Polly also found joy in the thrill of gambling and playing BEANO. Still, one of her most celebrated passions was gardening. With nearly 22 gardens adorning her property, she created a lush sanctuary that reflected her love for life and nature.

Those who had the pleasure of knowing Polly would describe her as loving, funny, and unfailingly friendly. She possessed the rare ability to light up a room with her presence and leave a warm, lasting impression on everyone she met. Polly was often likened to a “feisty little leprechaun,” a nod to her spirited demeanor and the twinkle of mischief in her eye, especially when she enjoyed an occasional spirit.

Polly’s family was the center of her world. She leaves behind her cherished daughter, Robin, and her beloved daughter-in-law, Deborah Rhodes-Andrews. She will also be profoundly missed by her nieces, Barbara Tardif, June Meyer, Dale Murphy, and Pam Hartley, and her nephews, Dennis and Jamie McCarthy. Polly’s cousin, Marylin Ray, will remember her fondly, along with many other family members and friends whose lives she touched.

She was predeceased by her husband, Fred in 1977; her son, Jeffrey in 2016; her parents; and her siblings, John Jr., William, Lincoln and Theresa McCarthy, Irene Dumeny, Catherine Bourdeaux, and Eleanore Ritter.

Polly Andrews lived a life rich in experiences and filled with love. Her legacy is one of joy, laughter, and an unwavering zest for life that inspired all who knew her.

As we bid farewell to this extraordinary woman, we ask that you celebrate the remarkable journey she shared with us on Saturday, April 18, 2026 from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. at LaFleur’s Restaurant, 224 Main St., Jay. Private family interment will take place in May at Mt. Hope Cemetery, Ticonderoga, N.Y.

Polly’s memory will continue to bloom like the flowers in her cherished gardens, a reminder of the beauty and love she planted in our hearts. Family and friends are encouraged to visit Polly’s Book of Memories at http://www.wilesrc.com who is proudly serving the family of Pauline F. Andrews.