Minister Andrena (Stewart) Cofer

Minister Andrena Stewart Cofer (hereinafter, referred to as “Andrena,”) was a resident of Beacon, New York for Sixty-Five years. In the pre-sunset of her life, she took up residency near her devoted sister, Wilma Stewart Hoggard, in Edison, New Jersey.

Andrena passed away and peacefully made her transition, in her sleep, on February 27, 2024, at Complete Care – a nursing facility in Clark, New Jersey.

Born on May 20, 1937, in Kelton, South Carolina, to the late Willie C. Stewart and Irene Spears Stewart, Andrena was the second of seven children. Her family and friends referred to her—affectionately--as “Drene.” Driven by her strong conviction to serve God, early on in life, Andrena would attend Bethany AME Church and Emanuel Baptist Church--both in Jonesville. She joined and was baptized at Emanuel Chapel Baptist Church.

Upon arrival in Beacon, New York, Andrena joined St. James AME Church--converting to the Church’s teachings. While there, she served as a pastor’s aide—assuming the responsibility of coordinating for the pastor, the Church’s many religious programs and community missionary work.

When St. James closed its doors, Andrena did not skip a beat. She joined Star of Bethlehem Baptist Church in Beacon where she remained a member. It was not important to Andrena--whether the denomination was AME or Baptist--as long as she was serving God.

At Sims High School in Union, South Carolina, she made her mark as an A student during the duration of her educative process there. She was a majorette for the school’s Band; performed as a skilled tap dancer; was the winner of many Spelling Bee contests in South Carolina. She was honored with the distinction of becoming the high school Homecoming Queen.

Relocating to Beacon, New York, at the age of sixteen, Andrena moved in with her paternal Aunt, Eldora Stewart Thomas and family. Enrolling in Beacon High School, Andrena continued to excel academically receiving many awards in English and Science. Because of her academic achievements, she graduated one year earlier than she was scheduled to graduate.

Andrena went on to advance her education at Krissler Business Institute, in Poughkeepsie, New York. In short order, she secured employment at the International Business Machines (IBM) company as an executive assistant. During her stint there, executive management recognized her innovative accomplishments and stellar performances. Notably was the writing of a recycling- suggestion--which was accepted and is still utilized today.

Deeply devoted to her family, Andrena rose to the occasion of serving as the catalyst to her nucleus family—relocating them from South Carolina, to Beacon, New York.

As a young adult, Andrena and the late Adolph Allan Cofer, Sr. consummated their relationship in matrimony. They would soon become blessed with two children, Adolph Allan Cofer, Jr. and Velda Nadine Cofer. They were Andrena’s pride and joy. Her love for her children was irreplaceable and cannot be compared with anything in this universe. She always wanted the best for her children and never compromised the quality of things she could offer them.

Years later, she earned a bachelor’s degree, at the New York Theological Seminary, in New York, New York. And shortly thereafter, she was ordained as a minister by the late Reverend Garfield Farley--the Pastor of the Star of Bethlehem Baptist Church.

After moving to New Jersey, Andrena continued faithfully serving God by leading countless Bible Studies in her place of residency.

She is the recipient of many awards for her service to God. She also fulfilled her civic duties—doing volunteer work for the National Association for Colored People (NAACP)—as well as providing important services in the Les Seours an Amiable Civic Club.

Andrena is preceded in death by her parents; her four brothers, James F. Stewart, Willie E. Stewart, Charles A. Stewart and Claude R. Stewart.

Indeed, Andrena will be missed by her son, Adolph Allan, daughter, Velda Nadine; granddaughters, Ariana Cofer-Miller, Alison Cherry; three great granddaughters, Marquasha, Keajah, Ariajah; and one great-granddaughter, Kylie; one sister, Wilma Stewart Hoggard and brother-in-law, Clarence M. Hoggard; and one brother, Curtis Stewart--and a host of nieces, nephews and cousins.

~Respectfully submitted by her loving family

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Minister Andrena (Stewart) Cofer, please visit our floral store.