Andrea J. Vernot, 64, of West Chester, PA, passed away on Wednesday December 3, 2025. She was the loving wife of Mark A. Vernot, a devoted mother of Matthew and Jason, a dear sister and life-long companion to Adrienne, and a soon-to-be grandmother who eagerly looked forward to welcoming a new life into the family. Andrea’s generous spirit and loving nature touched everyone who had the privilege of knowing her; she was truly loved by all who met her.
Born August 9, 1961 in Norwich, NY she was the daughter of the late Dr. Robert Bickerton and the late Shirley Yetter Bickerton. She attended Norwich Senior High School where she excelled both academically and athletically. She competed at the state level as a hurdler for the track and field team. Her academic excellence led her to Bucknell University for her undergraduate studies and the University of Pennsylvania for her graduate degree.
She recently retired from a distinguished 40-year career in the defense industry as a systems engineer for Lockheed Martin Corporation. Her work, much of which required a high-level security clearance, contributed directly to national security and left a meaningful and lasting impact on both the company and the country. She was respected for not only her expertise and dedication, but also for her integrity, leadership and unwavering commitment to her colleagues and mission.
Andrea found joy in card making and expressed her love through the beautiful cards she shared with family and friends. Her generosity knew no bounds as she regularly donated her creative handiwork to the Hershey Mill Library and Myrtle Beach Public Library for their fund raising activities. She also donated to Cards for Kindness for delivery to people in need of uplift and care. Her compassion and generosity extended to animals as well. She was a proud rescue dog mom, giving Maggie and Maisie safe and loving homes. She was a member of the North Myrtle Beach Sea Turtle Patrol where she dedicated her time to protecting these endangered animals. She was an avid runner, completing the Marine Corps Marathon and the Philadelphia Marathon in 2017.
In 1989, Andrea’s heart found its home when she married Mark, the love of her life. For 36 years they built a life filled with love, laughter, support, and unwavering devotion. She treasured family above all, especially her cherished children, Matthew and Jason, her daughter-in-law Olivia, and her sister, Adrienne. Her memory will continue to inspire the family she adored and the countless lives she brightened with her warmth.
Relatives and friends are invited to her Memorial Service on Monday December 15, 2025 at 11:00 AM at DellaVecchia, Reilly, Smith & Boyd Funeral Home 410 Church St., West Chester, PA 19380 DellaFH.com 610.696.1181. Lunch to follow at Hershey’s Mill Golf Club, 1500 Greenhill Rd West Chester PA, 19380.
In lieu of flowers, and in keeping with Andrea’s generous spirit, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made to Home at Last Dog Rescue, PO Box 1341 North Wales, PA 19454