Andrea Yvette Forde, age 53, of Maryland, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, in Bel Air. Born in Jersey City, Andrea was a beautiful, intelligent, humble, and loving soul whose kindness and brilliance touched everyone who knew her.

Andrea was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Leroy Edward Forde Jr., and Lois Bethelene Faulk-Forde, as well as her brother, Daryl Forde.

She is lovingly survived by her sisters, Margie Reives, Kim Baugh, and Cheryl Greene, her nephews, Demetrius Faulk and Tre Forde; her nieces, Kimiko Nelson, Lauren Greene, Jessica McCormick, and Jessica Greene Camara; her aunt, Dolores Fernandez, her beloved best friends Louise Hampton, and Jennifer O’Brien, good friend and neighbor, Michele Fritze and her son Thomas, and a host of extended family members and dear friends who will cherish her memory forever.

Andrea was a remarkable woman whose accomplishments reflected her dedication to education and lifelong learning. She made history as the first African American valedictorian of Edgewood High School, a milestone that reflected both her intelligence and determination. Her love of learning continued throughout her life as she pursued an impressive academic and professional career. She earned her bachelor’s degree in biology from Johns Hopkins University and was working towards her master’s degree at the University of Maryland at Baltimore. She also completed pre-medical studies at Georgetown University and obtained additional licensing through the Community College of Baltimore County.

Professionally, Andrea worked as an X-ray technician before advancing her career as an ultrasound sonographer and later as a highly skilled vascular sonographer. Her intelligence, professionalism, and dedication to helping others made her deeply respected in her field.

Beyond her academic and professional achievements, Andrea embraced life with passion and curiosity. She loved Korean dramas, anime, and music groups such as BTS. She adored fantasy literature, especially the works and worlds created by Anne Rice. Andrea enjoyed puzzles, crosswords, Sudoku, reading, traveling, and planning adventures. A book was always nearby and she could spend hours completely immersed in a good story.

Andrea also loved Asian cuisine, the joy and nostalgia of the The Muppets, and staying informed about politics and current events. Above all, she was known for her generosity and devotion to her loved ones. She lovingly cared for her parents before their passing and was an extraordinary caretaker, always putting the needs of others before her own.

Andrea will be remembered as a loving sister, devoted family member, loyal friend, and compassionate soul whose warmth, intelligence, and generosity left a lasting impact on all who knew her.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to:

National Kidney Foundation https://www.kidney.org/

or you can donate to:

The Lupus Foundation of America https://www.lupus.org/