Obituary: Andrew Cary Lipman
Andrew “Andy” Cary Lipman, beloved husband, father, son, brother, uncle, friend, and tireless advocate in the fight against cystic fibrosis (CF), passed away on Jan. 17, 2025, at the age of 51.
Andrew “Andy” Cary Lipman, beloved husband, father, son, brother, uncle, friend, and tireless advocate in the fight against cystic fibrosis (CF), passed away on Jan. 17, 2025, at the age of 51. Born in Atlanta, Ga. Andy was diagnosed with CF at birth, a challenge that shaped his life but never defined his unrelenting spirit and can-do attitude. Andy’s journey was a testament to his courage and positivity. He defied medical expectations and lived far beyond his initial prognosis. Inspired by the memory of his sister, Wendy, who passed away as an infant due to CF, Andy was known as a leader, a hero and a warrior in the CF community. He lived a meaningful life of service in his tireless quest to improve conditions for people around the world living with CF.
Andy’s deep roots in Georgia shaped his identity. He was a proud graduate of the University of Georgia’s Terry College of Business, an active member of Tau Epsilon Phi (TEP) fraternity, and an Alumni Board Member of the Terry College of Business. Andy was a passionate sports fan who bled red and black for his beloved Georgia Bulldogs and cheered fervently for the Atlanta Braves. His love of sports wasn’t just about the games; it was a reflection of his loyalty, optimism, and belief in overcoming obstacles.
A talented wordsmith, prolific author and inspirational public speaker, Andy gave voice and encouragement to the CF community through his books, including “Alive at 25: How I’m Beating Cystic Fibrosis, The Drive at 35: The Long Road to Beating Cystic Fibrosis,” and “The CF Warrior Project” series. These works share stories of resilience and hope, motivating countless individuals to live boldly in the face of adversity.
In honor of his sister, Wendy, Andy and his family founded the Wish for Wendy Foundation, which has raised nearly $5 million for cystic fibrosis research and support. His philanthropic efforts were a source of promise and progress for the CF community and his impact extended far beyond fundraising. Andy’s commitment was recognized globally, as he carried the Olympic Torch in 2001 and was featured on NBC’s, “The Today Show.”
Of all of Andy’s amazing accomplishments, his greatest treasures were his family. He is survived by his devoted wife of 22 years, Andrea, their two beloved children, Avery and Ethan, his loving father, Charles Lipman, and his sister, Emily Lipman Mahar. He was predeceased by his mother, Eva Lipman, his grandmother, Nana Rose, and his mother-in-law, Roberta Valentine. Andy brought his trademark humor, love, wit and wisdom to every family member, valued friendship and individual he met.
As Andy often said, “I have cystic fibrosis, but cystic fibrosis will never have me.” His life embodied this mantra, showing the world how to rise above challenges with grace, determination, and an unyielding belief in the power of community and hope. In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations to go to the Wish for Wendy Foundation thereby ensuring Andy’s work to find a cure will continue.
Until his last breath, Andy was as generous as he was brave. He donated his organs to give the gift of life to others. In addition, his lungs will go to CF Research at the University of North Carolina, where his daughter, Avery, is a freshman.
Andy Lipman’s legacy lives on in every life he touched, every barrier he broke, and every warrior he inspired. Live your dreams, love your life. Dressler’s Jewish Funeral Care, 770-451-4999.
- Andrew Cary Lipman
- Obituary
- Obituaries
- Lifecycle
- Lifecycles
- Cystic Fibrosis
- University of Georgia’s Terry College of Business
- Tau Epsilon Phi (TEP) fraternity
- Atlanta Braves
- Georgia Bulldogs
- Alive at 25: How I’m Beating Cystic Fibrosis
- The Drive at 35: The Long Road to Beating Cystic Fibrosis
- The CF Warrior Project
- Wish for Wendy Foundation
- University of North Carolina
- Dressler’s Jewish Funeral Care
comments