Farewell To A Beauty Queen: Andrea Andrade'S Legacy

  • By Miles
  • Jan. 30, 2026, 9 a.m.

California's Beloved Beauty Queen Bids Farewell

The West Coast modeling scene mourns the loss of Andrea Andrade, the radiant model and former Miss California, who has passed at the age of 35. Known for her stunning presence and spirited persona, Andrade left an indelible mark not just in beauty pageants but also as a tireless advocate. After being diagnosed with stage 3 colon cancer in 2017, she defied the odds and lived a full life for nearly a decade beyond her initial prognosis.

A Battle Fought with Grace

Andrea's story is one of resilience and strength. A shining star of the California beauty pageant circuit, she held titles such as Miss West Coast and Miss Nuestra Belleza USA. Beyond the glitz and glamour, she embraced her diagnosis openly, determined to show that life with cancer can still be vibrant. She paved the way for open discussions about illness, emphasizing early detection and courage.

"I know this is not goodbye. I’ll see you on the other side," her husband, Chris Wilson, tenderly expressed in a heartfelt social media post.

Andrea's commitment to raising awareness didn't end with her diagnosis. Alongside her husband, she co-founded Not All Heroes Wear Capes, an initiative dedicated to visiting hospitals and championing early cancer detection. The organization also sought to bring smiles to the faces of hospitalized children, reflecting Andrea's compassionate spirit.

A Heartfelt Goodbye

On January 16, Andrea Andrade's inspiring journey came to an end, though her legacy continues to shine. Her husband, Chris Wilson, shared news of her passing and extended an invitation to all who knew Andrea to attend her funeral on February 4 at St. Anthony of Padua Church in Reedley, California. A private service will follow for her closest family and friends.

Wilson, reflecting on their shared memories, posted a touching tribute online, filled with cherished photos and videos, urging Andrea to "keep her heavenly arms around me." His words capture a love that transcends even the toughest goodbyes, as he vowed to meet her again.

Andrea Andrade may no longer grace the red carpet or the pageant stage, but her influence and the light she brought into the world will continue to inspire long beyond her time with us.

Miles
Author: Miles
Miles

Miles

Miles Ritter is the calm in the chaos — a journalist with a clean-cut look and a taste for dirty stories. Whether it’s a leaked tape or a legal meltdown, Miles breaks it down with clarity, context, and a bit of snark.