Andrew Lee Ireland

Andrew Lee Ireland was born in Greenwood, Mississippi on January 8, 1943 to Matoker Lollis Ireland and Arthur Ireland Sr. He was the youngest of 4 children from this union. Both parents and his siblings: Arthur Ireland Jr., Louis Ireland, and Doretha Simpson preceded him in death.

Andrew “Doll” Ireland found Christ at an early age and often shared the story of being baptized in a river. It was this experience that shaped his heart, compelled him to walk in love, and influenced the rest of his life. Those who knew Andrew well, knew that his actions spoke louder than his words. He was good to people and did good for people without expectation.

Andrew attended Stege Elementary in Richmond, CA and graduated from Washington Union High School in Fresno, CA. Shortly thereafter, he attended Reedley College and his athleticism took him to superstar status. In the early 60s, he was recruited by Coach Chatfield to play football with the Utah Utes at the University of Utah. Later, Coach Chatfield was also instrumental in signing Andrew onto the Dallas Cowboys. Injury ended his football career prematurely but created an opportunity for him to meet the love of his life, Barbara Brooks. She preceded him in death. The two met at St. Francis Medical Center where she was a nurse and he was an orderly in the psychiatric ward. Who knew their BBQ lunch date would lead to 18 years of marital bliss! When Andrew and Barbara desired to start a family, he left St. Francis to begin a career with the United States Postal Service. He retired after 32 years to help care for his mother, Matoker.

Andrew was an active member of Bethel AME Los Angeles from the early 90’s until his health prevented him from attending regularly. In his latter years, he would often attend the City of David Community Church with his daughter. Whether he was physically able to be in the sanctuary or not, he read his bible, tithed, prayed and worshiped wherever he was! Nothing would keep him from praising the Lord. Andrew embodied faith, strength, and resilience. He loved good food, storytelling, and spending time with family. Despite his illness, Andrew’s life was well-lived. He left no plays on the field.

To God be the glory!

He leaves to cherish his memory his children Terrence Ireland (Toshiba), Cairen Ireland, and Alexis Ireland; his grandchildren Aliya Ireland and Tania Ireland; Sister Ruby Ireland; his bonus family Nichole Davis, Keyauni Peters, Dylan Lucas, Velda Fields, Aisha Brooks, Cira Lloyd, Brooke Benford, Bryant Benford Jr., Wynter Brooks, Somer Davis, Autumn Naulings and a host of other family, church family, teammates and friends.