Andrew James Cavanagh

Andrew James Cavanagh of Manhattan New York, formerly of Pelham New York. 

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Andrew James Cavanagh, 38, of New York, NY, who left us too soon on September 15, 2025. He was a devoted husband to Angela and a loving father to his daughter, Quinn, and son, Luke.

Andrew was born on September 10, 1987, and raised in Pelham, NY. He was the cherished son of Edward and Janet Cavanagh of White Plains, NY, and embodied what it means to be a loving, dedicated son and brother. Over the years, he enjoyed family trips to the beach, playing sports with his older brother Christopher, long walks in the New York Botanical Garden with his mom, and swapping books on WWII history with his dad.

Andrew attended Fordham Preparatory School, where his natural athleticism shone on the baseball diamond and basketball court. He earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Notre Dame and his MA and PhD in Applied Developmental Psychology from Fordham University. He was proud of his deep connections to both institutions, which shaped him academically, personally, and spiritually, and he remained intellectually curious throughout his life.

He is deeply missed by his wife, children, parents, brother Christopher Cavanagh (Alyss Cavanagh), in-laws Bill Solomon III and Mary Ann Solomon, brothers-in-law Bill Solomon IV (Andrew Abate) and Andrew Solomon, sister-in-law Christina Solomon Mordoff (Ryan Mordoff), and cousin with whom he shared a special bond, Susan O’Rielly (William O’Rielly). He is also survived by three nieces and two nephews, as well as a wide circle of extended family and cherished friends who appreciated his warm nature, easy conversation, quick wit, and thoughtfulness—in both his kindness and generosity, and in his deep, contemplative way of thinking.

Andrew centered everything around his family, building a beautiful life of fun, adventure, laughter, and love with Angela over their 13-year relationship. Together they enjoyed traveling, taking walks in Central Park with their dog Winston, listening to live music, and spending time with their family and friends. He was an incredible husband who showed his love every day in both little and big ways.

Being a father to Quinn and Luke was the greatest honor of his life, and he relished every aspect of parenthood. From countless afternoons at the playground to doing anything to make his kids laugh, he instilled in them a love of reading, curiosity, silliness, and joie de vivre. For all of his many talents, being the “World’s Best Daddy” topped them all.

Andrew’s perfect day would have included some combination of running, visiting The Met, cheering on Yankees baseball or Notre Dame football, listening to a history audiobook, catching up with a friend, having a picnic in the park, exploring NYC, or making his famous guacamole for the people he loved while his favorite music played in the background. He was known for his signature moves on the dance floor, empathetic ear, and big, comforting hugs. His smile was warm, his eyes kind, his laugh infectious, and he was a treasured soul who left a lasting impression on everyone he met.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, September 26, at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church, 575 Fowler Avenue, Pelham Manor, NY 10803.

In lieu of flowers, please consider supporting Quinn and Luke’s education fund or Educational Alliance, a NYC nonprofit where Andrew previously worked and whose mission of social service resonated deeply with him.