Priscilla “Biff” Andre

First-Grade Teacher, Community Leader

Priscilla Hoopes Andre, known as “Biff”, died peacefully in her sleep at Embassy of Tunkhannock, PA, on January 3, 2025. She was 89.

Biff was the daughter of the late Wilmer W. Hoopes, Jr. and Mary Sayre Hoopes. Born in Philadelphia, she grew up in Rosemont, PA, summering at what later became her home at “Random Rocks” in Montrose, PA.

Biff received her Bachelor’s in Education at Wells College in 1956, followed by a Master’s in Education at Goucher College in 1957. In 1959 she married David Steven Andre of Montrose, and moved to Montrose, where they created their family and life together. They would go on to have three children and seven grandchildren, all of whom adore their mom and “grandmom”.

Biff loved children and teaching was her calling. She started with preschool special education in Haddonfield, NJ, followed by a lifetime as a beloved first grade teacher in the Montrose Area School District. She was a leader in the Girl Scouts and counselor at Camp Archibald. She and Dave hosted numerous exchange students throughout the years. They were a host family for many children through the Fresh Air Fund, which at the time was a charity where New York City children could spend summer weeks with rural host families. One of these children in particular, Clarence “Jimmy” Evans (now of Lehi, UT), came to be considered as another beloved son and part of the family. She and Dave were active in their children’s activities, notably cross country running, band, choir, plays, and horseback riding, where they actively participated and organized events, transportation, and fundraising.

Throughout her life Biff, while avoiding the spotlight, was energetically active in the church and Montrose communities. Reflecting her loves of children and music, she directed childrens’ and youth choirs at Montrose United Methodist Church, as well as teaching Sunday school and directing/organizing numerous church pageants and events. With her love of genealogy, she researched her family history and became a pillar of the Susquehanna County Historical Society. She is known for organizing and running the historical society’s annual blueberry festival breakfasts for many years.

Biff lived life to the fullest, enjoying friendly tennis at the Montrose Country Club, swimming, cross country skiing, and walking. She was once featured on WNEP TV for completing her quest to walk every single road in Susquehanna County.

Biff’s love, friendship and support will be widely and sorely missed. Biff was predeceased by her three siblings, Louise “Dede” Shafer, Wilmer “Buzz” Hoopes III, and Elisabeth Gilbert. She is survived by her husband of 65 years David Steven Andre of Montrose; her three children, David L. Andre of Bedford, NH, Carolyn Andre Beck of Fairbanks, AK, and Peter S. Andre (Michelle) of Mason, OH; in-laws Neil Andre and Malcolm “Joe” Andre; her grandchildren Nicholas Andre, Benjamin Andre, Elizabeth Andre, James Beck, Colleen Beck, Mikaila Andre, and Aubry Andre; as well as numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.

A memorial service followed by a brief reception will be held April 12, 2025, 11:30AM, at the Montrose Presbyterian Church, with her pastor Reverend Douglas Sivers officiating. Burial is in the family plot in Montrose, PA at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Susquehanna County Historical Society & Free Library Association Permanent Endowment, 270 Lake Avenue, Montrose, PA 18801.

This obituary also appears on the website of the Daniel K. Regan Funeral Home.