Andrew James Wise,

Andrew James Wise, Jr., 86, of Gainesville, passed away on Tuesday, July 17, 2012 at North Florida Regional Medical Center. He was born on November 22, 1925 in Havana, Kansas to Andrew and Grace Wise. He proudly served and was a decorated member of the U.S. Army in WWII in Field Artillery. He was among the first soldiers to land on the Philippine beaches. He also served in the occupation forces in Japan. Prior to retirement, Mr. Wise was employed as a Code Enforcement Officer for the City of Gainesville. In retirement, Mr. Wise dedicated himself to his church, Covenant Presbyterian and was a founding member. Prior to that, when he lived in Kansas City, he served as Associate Presbyter for the Heartland Presbytery. He was extensively involved in volunteer community service. Mr. Wise was instrumental in the founding and formation of the Alachua County Habitat for Humanity and the Gainesville Acorn Clinic. He volunteered at the St. Francis House for many years, preparing and serving meals to the homeless. For 25 years, he was an active Board member and Officer with the Neighborhood Housing and Development Corporation (NHDC) to promote and provide affordable housing programs and services to lower income residents. In 2005, Neighbor Works America, a Washington based national non-profit advocacy organization awarded Mr. Wise with the prestigious Dorothy Richardson Award, in recognition for his outstanding volunteer work, resident leadership development and community service achievements. Mr. Wise is survived by his wife, Pauline; three daughters, Tanya, Stacie and Tiffany who all reside in Kansas; a grandson, Silvester T. Oliver of San Diego, CA; and three great grandchildren: Jaidin Elijah Oliver, Aliyha Trinity Oliver, and Leviyha Mary Oliver. A visitation will be held on Saturday, July 21, 2012 at Covenant Presbyterian Church, 1001 NW 98th Street, Gainesville (32606) from 5:00 to 7:00 PM. A funeral service will be held on Sunday, July 22, 2012 at 10:00 AM at Covenant Presbyterian Church with Rev. Laura Joost-Kuhn officiating. Family will receive friends and guests one hour prior to the service. Flowers are welcomed, however to honor Andrew's love for his church, donations may be made in his memory to Covenant Presbyterian.

Andrew James Wise,

July 18, 2012