Andrea Suzanne Jackson

Andrea Suzanne Jackson also known as Andrea Suzanne Plunkett Race

June 2, 1979 – October 10, 2026

Andrea Suzanne Jackson, also known as Andrea Suzanne Plunkett Race, age 47, passed away on October 10, 2026, in San Diego, California.

Andrea was born on June 2, 1979, and was a 1997 graduate of Grant County High School in Dry Ridge, Kentucky. A lifelong learner with a determined spirit, Andrea later attended Southern New Hampshire University, where she graduated with distinct honors, earning her bachelor’s degree in Data Analytics—an accomplishment of which she was incredibly proud.

Most recently, Andrea made her home in Maricopa, Arizona, where she was building a life and looking forward to an exciting new chapter with her fiancé, Matthew Kelsay. Together, they shared a deep love and a life filled with family, adventure, laughter, and plans for the future. Andrea also treasured the family she gained through Matt, including his son, Daniel (London), her soon-to-be mother-in-law, Janet, and sister-in-law, Lauri.

Andrea was truly full of life and adventure. She experienced life deeply and believed her voice mattered. Music was one of her greatest passions, and she spent many years singing, sharing a voice that was meant to be heard. Whether through music, conversation, laughter, or simply being unapologetically herself, Andrea brought an unmistakable presence wherever she went. She had a remarkable ability to recognize beauty in the world around her—even during life's most difficult seasons. She loved deeply, gave generously, and had a heart for others. Andrea never knew a stranger and was a friend to all. She believed in helping those who needed it and giving what she could, often putting others before herself.

The People She Loved Relationships were at the heart of Andrea's life. She loved fiercely and wholeheartedly, and the bonds she created extended far beyond traditional definitions of family. Andrea especially loved her family. She was a cherished aunt to many nieces and nephews who loved her dearly, and she shared an especially close and meaningful bond with her eldest niece, Skylar Race. Being part of such a large family meant there was never a shortage of stories, memories, laughter, or love—and Andrea's place within that family can never be replaced.

Andrea also shared a special and treasured friendship with her dear friend, Jason Jackson, and held his children, Reed and Mindy, close to her heart. They were an important part of Andrea's life and of the circle of people she cared so deeply about. The relationships she built throughout her life were a reflection of Andrea herself—openhearted and full of love.

Andrea was preceded in death by her biological father, Robert L. Plunkett, and her mother, Mary Eleene Walton Race. She is survived by her adoptive father, Floyd Race (Toni) of Taylorsville, Kentucky; her fiancé, Matthew Kelsay; and her sisters and brothers: Tina (Mike) Ramey of Cincinnati, Ohio; Denise (Eric) Jeffries of Alexandria, Kentucky; Jennifer (Dusty) Jones of Erlanger, Kentucky; Amanda (Chris) Dunn of Union, Kentucky; Becky (Sean) Armstrong of Shreveport, Louisiana; Nathan (Lisa) Race of Union, Kentucky; Eric Race of Latonia, Kentucky; Beth (Mark) Butler of Independence, Kentucky; Amy Hamilton of Springfield, Missouri; and Robert (Amber) Plunkett of Conway, South Carolina. She also leaves behind many beloved nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends who will carry her memory with them always.

Andrea's journey was uniquely her own—filled with twists and turns, challenges and triumphs, music and adventure, and above all, love. She endured difficult seasons but continued to seek the light through her faith. She noticed the beauty others might overlook. She loved without reservation. She wanted her voice to be heard, and those who loved her will ensure that her story continues to be told.

Andrea's life ended far too soon, but the love she gave, the laughter she shared, the music she carried, and the light she brought into the lives of others will remain.

A Special Tribute from Matt and Family Your beautiful soul has left us far too soon. You lived a life full of experience and adventure. Your road was long and winding, traveling through both light and dark, as we all do. You endured more than most will ever know, but through it all, you continued to let your light shine so brightly and with such positivity. You never lost your hope and faith. You always sought out the beauty in all things. You helped those in need and gave everything you had to those who needed it. For me, your devoted husband, you were my Wonder Woman, my soulmate, my 23-hour person. You taught me so much about life and showed me what it is like to be truly, deeply, and wholly loved. No exceptions. You brought light, love, and so much joy to me and our family. Your sparkling eyes, your smile that lit up a room, your razor-sharp wit, and your infectious laugh could uplift anyone. Your energy will never be forgotten by any of us.

We love you yesterday, today, tomorrow, and ALWAYS.

WE LOVES YOUS…ALWAYS Matt (husband) Daniel (son) London (Daniel's fiancée) Janet (mother-in-law) Lauri (sister-in-law)

Celebration of Life A Celebration of Life honoring Andrea will be held at a later date. Additional details will be shared with family and friends as arrangements are finalized. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial donations to the Alzheimer's Association, in honor and memory of Andrea's mother, Mary, or to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). These organizations offer an opportunity for Andrea's memory to bring hope and help to others.

And in the spirit of a woman who loved deeply, saw beauty in the world around her, and believed in the power of hope: “Love recognizes no barriers. It jumps hurdles, leaps fences, penetrates walls to arrive at its destination full of hope.” — Maya Angelou