Yanilka “Nicky” Carmen Andrews

Nicky was born in Panama on July 1, 1974 and peacefully went to be with God on Thursday, May 22, 2025.

Nicky is the beloved wife of Mark Andrews, the proud mother of Jack Andrews, and beloved daughter of Teresa and Mike Good.

Nicky graduated from Richland Northeast High School in Columbia, SC. She pursued a distinguished career in education, earning degrees from Winthrop University - Bachelor’s (96), Furman University - Master’s (02), and an education specialist degree from the University of South Carolina (07). While at Winthrop she was welcomed into the Chi Omega Sorority, providing a steady guide for her sorority sisters to create a path of purpose and success.

Nicky was always in charge, fierce in everything she did. It was hard for anyone to tell her “no”. As a gifted communicator and mission-driven leader, she excelled in inspiring those around her, guiding teams with wisdom, and building relationships rooted in trust and respect.

A visionary leader, compassionate mentor, and devoted advocate for education, Nicky dedicated her life to fostering growth, empowerment, and transformation within her community. With an unwavering commitment to excellence, Nicky touched countless lives through her work as an educator and administrator, leaving an indelible mark on students, colleagues, and families alike.

She was an educator for over 28 years beginning as a Gifted & Talented Teacher at Fort Mill Elementary School at Fort Mill School District Four. She served in various roles such District Literacy Coach with Spartanburg District Six, as Assistant Principal at Charles Townes Center and Sterling School and principal intern at Greenville Middle Academy before being appointed principal of Greenbrier Elementary in 2008. In 2016, Nicky became principal of Greenville Middle Academy.

Throughout her tenure as a principal in Greenville County Schools and later as the Coordinator of Training and Teacher Quality in Spartanburg District Five, Nicky championed academic excellence and nurtured environments where educators and students could thrive. Her influence extended beyond the classroom—her strategic thinking and advocacy paved the way for meaningful progress in school culture, professional development, and student success.

Nicky received many accolades for her leadership and dedication to education. Among her many professional honors, she was recognized as L.E. Gable Middle School Teacher of the Year, Spartanburg School District 6 Teacher of the Year (2004-05), Greenville County Schools Principal of the Year (2014-15), Greenville County Reading Association Principal of the Year (2015-16). Nicky’s legacy is reflected in the achievements of the schools she led, the educators she mentored, and the students whose lives she enriched.

Her warmth, generosity, and unwavering faith brought light to those around her. Even in her final days she comforted those she loved by reminding us; “Jesus is my Lord, my light, my Savior, and I know where I’m going”.

Nicky leaves behind a timeless legacy to be cherished. Her dedication to education, her belief in the potential of others, and her relentless pursuit of excellence will continue to inspire generations to come.

Surviving are: her husband, Mark and son, Jack. Parents: Mike & Teresa. One sister, Krystle (Akilah) of CO Springs, CO, and two brothers, Marcus of Columbia, SC and Michael of Detroit, MI. Mother-in-law, Debbie Armstrong of Greer, SC; father-in-law, Jesse (Lenora) Andrews of Hendersonville, NC; sister-in-law, Coe Andrews of Ormond Beach, FL; four Nieces: Erika, Audrey, Asher & Avery; two Nephews: Aaron & Alex; a host of loving cousins, other relatives, many cherished friends, former students and colleagues.

A visitation for Yanilka will be held Wednesday, May 28, 2025 from 12:00 PM to 1:15 PM at North Hills Church, 4952 Edwards Rd, Taylors, SC 29687 followed by a funeral service at 1:30 PM.

A committal service will occur immediately after the service at Woodlawn Memorial Park, Wade Hampton Blvd, Greenville, SC 29609.