Officer Andrew Wade Kimbrel

Andy was known for his humility, caring nature, and good sense of humor. His love for others and his giving personality served him well in his chosen profession as a police officer. Andy began his public service duty by volunteering with the City of West Blocton. In 2001, Andy began his service with the Fairfield Police Department after graduating from the Police Academy at Tuscaloosa. In 2002, he began working with Vestavia Hills Police Department, initially serving as a Patrol Officer and Evidence Technician. He found his passion when he became the School Resource Officer at Vestavia West Elementary School, where he made several special friends. He also served as School Resource Officer at Vestavia High School. At the time of his death, Andy had returned to his role as a patrol officer, serving and protecting the citizens of Vestavia Hills. He was awarded Officer of the Year with Vestavia Hills Police Department. Throughout his career, he served with valor and saved multiple lives.

Andy was a strong family man and loved his children dearly. Along with passion for family and public service, Andy was an avid Alabama football fan. As a teen, he also enjoyed modifying cars, whether they needed it or not.

Andy is preceded in death by his father, Terry Kimbrel; his former wife, Misty Dawn Kimbrel; maternal grandparents, Anson and Kate Otis; and paternal grandparents, Lynn and Pauline Kimbrel. He is survived by his mother, Renda Kimbrel; his daughter, Emma Kate Kimbrel; son, Thomas Andrew Kimbrel; sister, Lindsey Kimbrel Keener (Michael); nephew, Grayson Keener; as well as many brothers and sisters in blue.

A visitation for Andy will be held on Wednesday, May 8, 2019 from 5:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. at Southern Heritage Funeral Home, 475 Cahaba Valley Road, Pelham, Alabama. Funeral service will be held on Thursday, May 9, 2019 at 10:00 a.m. at Mountaintop Community Church, 225 Centerview Drive, Vestavia Hills, Alabama 35216.

In lieu of flowers, Andy’s family respectfully requests donations be made to the Vestavia Hills Police Foundation in his memory.