Andrea V. Bidell

Andrea V.  Bidell – 68 – of 31 Hart St., Hornell, died unexpectedly early Friday morning, January 31, 2020, at her home.

Born in Jackson, MS on February 27, 1951, “Andy” was the daughter of Joseph and Virginia (Hughes) Williams.

In her younger years, Andrea resided in many locations due to her father’s career in higher education, including Mississippi, Indiana, South Dakota, and even Thailand.  During her high school years, she lived in the Buffalo area and was a graduate of Sweet Home High School in Amherst, NY (class of 1969).  In 1973, she received her Bachelor’s Degree in Childhood Education from Buffalo State College where she met her beloved husband.

On July 28, 1973, Andrea married Frederick W. “Fred” Bidell, Jr.  They resided in Fort Collins, CO for nearly seven years where they purchased their first home.  Upon returning to New York, they lived in Swain for three years before moving to Hornell, where they have made their home for the past 36 years.

For many years, Andrea served as the Director of the Hornell Area Arts Council.  She went on to work as Director of Alumni Affairs and Annual Giving at Alfred State College.  More recently, she worked as Executive Director of Alumni Services and the Annual Fund at St. Bonaventure University.

Andy had been a member of the Hornell United Presbyterian Church.  She enjoyed gardening (both flowers and vegetables), hunting for and collecting antiques, watching cooking shows, making her family’s favorite meals, and honeymooning with Fred in Maine.  She was an avid reader and instilled a love of reading, and the arts, in her children.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Joseph and Virginia Williams.

Surviving are her husband, Frederick “Fred” Bidell, Jr.; two sons, Benjamin “Ben” (Kate) Bidell of Grand Island, NY and Zachary “Zach” Bidell of Cheektowaga, NY; one daughter, Elizabeth “Liz” Bidell of Brooklyn, NY; one brother, Joseph (Ann) Williams of Hawaii; one sister, Lana (Steve) Hollmann of Minnesota; one granddaughter, Liliane “Lili” Bidell; and dozens of nieces, nephews, in-laws, and other extended family.At Andrea’s request, there will be no calling hours.  A memorial service will be held on Saturday, February 8, 2020 at 11:00 am at the Hornell United Presbyterian Church with Rev. Katherine Griffis officiating.

Funeral arrangements are in care of the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY.

Andrea’s family request that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in her name be made to the Hornell Area Humane Society, 7649 Industrial Park Rd., Hornell, NY 14843.

3 Responses to “Andrea V. Bidell”

  1. Maggie Cregan says:

    Fred, Zack, and family,
    I am so sorry for your loss. You are all in my thoughts and prayers. Love, Maggie Cregan

  2. Molly Rauber says:

    You will be missed, my longtime friend. Thoughts to all that love and hold you dear.

  3. Cathryn Dravis says:

    The loss of such a dear friend is heartbreaking and puts in prespective that each day is a blessing. I’m praying for my wonderful family friends during this time of deep sadness. Love to you all. Cath and John