Elder Andre T. Capers

“Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God.”

Matthew 5:9 KJV

Andre T. Capers, affectionately known as “Drea,” was born on August 10, 1967, in Brooklyn, New York, to Rudolph and Emma Lee White Capers. He was the seventh child of the family. However, his birth in New York State and educational journey differed from that of his six siblings, who were born in South Carolina and completed their education in Brooklyn, NY.

Andre completed his high school education in 1985 as a proud Patriot at Ruffin High School in Ruffin, South Carolina. During his high school years, he played football and performed as a trumpet player in the marching band. Playing football was a remarkable achievement, as at birth his legs were severely bowed, requiring corrective surgery in 1969 at Brookdale Hospital in Brooklyn, NY.

After graduating high school, Andre enlisted in the United States Navy and served two tours, including one during the Gulf War. He often recalled with laughter how skilled recruiters were in persuading reenlistment with attractive bonuses, only for the reality to differ after signing. During his service, he received numerous honors, including the Navy Good Conduct Medal, Navy Pistol Marksmanship Ribbon, National Defense Service Medal, Navy Sea Service Deployment Ribbon (2), Meritorious Unit Commendation Ribbon, and the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal.

In the early 1980s, while attending Lively Stone Temple Apostolic Church, Inc., Andre and his grandmother, Ella B. Capers, were both filled with the gift of the Holy Ghost, with the evidence of speaking in other tongues as Spirit gave utterance. It was a remarkable moment, as they tarried together on opposite sides of a small offering table. They humbly submitted to Acts 2:38.

Later in life, after completing his naval service, Andre was often reminded of his biblical commitments. He would respond, “Yes, Paul, I know my mother is an evangelist.” However, through the influence of his mother and the scripture Matthew 22:14 KJV — “For many are called, but few are chosen” — his passion for ministry was reignited.

Andre found joy in visiting the sick, feeding the homeless, and engaging with people of all ages. His mission was to uplift others’ self-esteem through the Word of God. When necessary, he used humor and personal stories to capture attention and inspire.

He served faithfully as an Ordained Deacon, Minister, and Elder under the leadership of Archbishop James Russell, pastor of Arrow of Yahweh International Ministries (formerly One Offering Tabernacle of God) in Cambria Heights, Queens, NY.

Prior to his transition, Andre was serving under the leadership of Pastor Rosa, prophet of One Accord Church in Brooklyn, NY.

Andre was a visionary. Whenever he felt overwhelmed—even as a child—he would say, “I’ve got to rest my brain.” He established and hosted The Minister’s Café, Transitional Ministries, and Five Minutes of Power, which were featured on Facebook. His goal was to help others understand both sides of scripture. He frequently used the phrase “more importantly” in his teachings. An avid reader, Andre deeply enjoyed both literary and biblical works. One of his greatest joys was being able to say, “I have alphabets behind my name.

He received in Associate of Arts in English and Creative Writing from Nassau Community College, Bachelor of Science in Business from St. John’s University, Associate Degree in Biblical Theology from Trinity College and a New York State Chaplaincy Certificate

Andre’s professional experience included roles with the Administration for Children’s Services, as a registered representative stockbroker, the Internal Revenue Service, and Morgan Stanley. He also held positions in banking and finance, specializing in business development and client relationship management.

Andre was preceded in death by his parents, Rudolph and Emma Lee Capers; his brother, Donnie J. Capers; and his sister, Judy O. Capers.

He leaves to cherish his memories, two brothers, Deacon Dennis E. Capers and Bishop Paul M. Capers (Amanda E.) both of Walterboro, SC: two sisters, Rev. Dr. Debarah L. Smith of Hempstead, NY and Dr. Veronica F. Capers of Brooklyn, NY; two uncles and three aunts a special great-nephew, Noah, whom he lovingly nicknamed “Egbert”  along with a host of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, relatives, and many friends.

Special thanks to Charmaine Stevenson for her compassion, labor of love, and moral support for Andre.

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