Andrerashon Karim "Dre" Keith's Obituary
Andrerashon Karim "Dre" Keith
It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of Andrerashon Karim "Dre" Keith,
who departed this life on June 29, 2025. Born on November 6, 1978, in Newark, NJ, at Saint
Michaels Hospital, Andre was the cherished son of Marilyn V. Campbell and the late Andre
Jerome Keith.
Andre's educational journey began at Our Lady of The Valley grade school in Orange, NJ,
where he also developed a strong sense of community and leadership by becoming a Boy
Scout and a Royal Ranger. He continued his education at Union Middle School in Irvington,
NJ, and culminated in his graduation from Irvington High School (Franklin H. Morrell) in 1997.
During his high school years, Andre also demonstrated leadership and discipline, achieving the
rank of E4 in JROTC. Following his high school completion, Andre honorably served his nation
in the United States Army, achieving the rank of PV2 E2 and receiving an honorable
discharge in 1998. His military service included a stationing at Fort Jackson military base in
South Carolina before living overseas in Germany until 2005. While in the Army, Andre met
and married Staff Sergeant Michelle Jankee, gaining two beloved stepchildren, Rakeea and
Malik Jankee. They later divorced in 2009. Committed to lifelong learning, Andre later pursued
and earned a degree from Penn University.
A man of boundless energy and a generous spirit, Andre was always ready to lend a helping
hand. He possessed a special talent for painting homes and installing flooring. His diverse
professional background also included work as a certified EMT, and leveraging his disciplined
military experience, he successfully established his own LLC. Andre's heart belonged to his
family, and he centered his life around them. In 2010, he was blessed with his beloved daughter,
Destiny N. Keith, whom he had with his high school sweetheart, Charnette Hockaday. Andre
possessed a remarkable ability to transform acquaintances into cherished family, extending
unconditional love and unwavering support to all in his circle. His infectious laughter, passion for
music, vibrant personality, and love for dancing and good food illuminated every space he
entered.
Andre is survived by his devoted mother, Marilyn V. Campbell; his cherished daughter, Destiny
N. Keith; and his three siblings, Terri N. Artis, Ciera S. Campbell, and Dashawn J. Campbell.
He also leaves behind numerous close family members and friends who will deeply mourn his
absence and forever cherish his memory.
What’s your fondest memory of Andrerashon?
What’s a lesson you learned from Andrerashon?
Share a story where Andrerashon's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Andrerashon you’ll never forget.
How did Andrerashon make you smile?