Andrea Aurora Philbeck

Andrea Aurora Philbeck (Nana) passed away at home on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, at the age of 88. She was surrounded by family and close friends.

A memorial service is planned for Saturday, August 1 at 1:00 p.m. at Scott’s Funeral Home in Gatesville.

Andrea was born on October 29, 1937, in Gatesville, Texas to Pantalion and Angela Manriquez. She grew up in Gatesville and graduated from Gatesville High School.

Andrea was preceded in death by the love of her life, John Philbeck. She was also preceded in death by her parents; four brothers (Phillip, Ted, Cleto, and John Frank); and five sisters (Ramona, Leonides, Rosa, Natalia, and Marcelina).

She is survived by her sister, Juanita Peeler of Waco. She is also survived by her daughter, Deborah and husband Joe of Nolanville; son, Michael of Gatesville with son Quade and grandson Kason; her granddaughter Christa with husband Peter and great grandchildren, Andrew and Elana of Harker Heights; her daughter Caren with husband Matt and great grandchildren Ava, Benjamin, and Carter, of Austin. Andrea had generations of aunts, uncles, nephews, nieces, and cousins, many with whom she remained close until her death.

Although Andrea had been diagnosed with cancer, she lived a full and happy life for most of it. She always credited her close relationships with her spiritual brothers and sisters where she met regularly with them at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses in Copperas Cove. She liked to travel and enjoyed many trips and cruises with her sisters, brother, and extended family.

Andrea was known as Nana by her grandchildren as well as numerous families in Gatesville. She began her babysitting career in 1984 with infant Chase Massingill, who she adored and had a lifelong bond. There were many girls and boys she cared for after Chase and maintained warm relationships with them until her death. Because she was nurturing and empathetic, she was viewed by many of her family members as a loyal confidante and would lovingly listen to and advise them when asked. She was instrumental in planning and continuing the tradition of family get togethers and reunions. She loved to crochet and quilt and today many family and friends enjoy the comfort and beauty of her creations.

In lieu of flowers, her children request that any donations be sent to support the worldwide religious and humanitarian activities of Jehovah’s Witnesses at JW.ORG (2 Corinthians 9:7).