Remembering Andrew “Andy” James Paterno

It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of our beloved CEO, Andrew James Paterno, known to all simply as Andy, on August 29, 2025, at the age of 77.

Andy was much more than the leader of Centurion Insurance. He was a mentor, visionary, and friend whose impact reached far beyond the walls of our organization. Under his leadership, Centurion grew not only in size but also in its commitment to excellence, service, and community.

A Legacy of Leadership

Andy’s career spanned decades of dedicated service in both the private and public sectors. Before joining Centurion Insurance, he served as President for the West Virginia Region of Huntington National Bank, Vice Chairman at Wells Fargo Insurance Services USA, and Managing Director for the Mid-Atlantic Region, where he oversaw more than 35 locations. Earlier in his career, he also served in public service roles within the State of West Virginia, helping to strengthen the Civil Service System and advance economic development initiatives.

His leadership was recognized with numerous honors, including induction into the West Virginia Business Hall of Fame, the University of Charleston Hall of Fame, and recognition as Alumnus of the Year by the University of Charleston. Andy also received honorary doctorates from both the University of Charleston and Concord University.

A Commitment to Community

Beyond his professional achievements, Andy believed in giving back. He served on numerous boards, from the West Virginia Roundtable to the Girl Scouts Black Diamond Council, and dedicated himself to causes that strengthened the communities he loved. He was also deeply connected to the world of sports and education, serving as Managing Partner of the Charleston Alley Cats and supporting Concord University and Sacred Heart Grade School, among many others.

A Life of Generosity

What set Andy apart, however, was not just his career or his accolades. It was his heart. Those who knew him will remember his warmth, his humor, and his extraordinary generosity. Andy never met a stranger. Whether offering a ride, opening his home, or sharing his wife Mary Jo’s famous cooking, Andy lived his life with kindness at the center.

Family was everything to him. He shared 52 years of marriage with Mary Jo, his best friend and constant companion. Together, they raised two children, Niki and Tony, and were blessed with four grandchildren: Sophia, Gia, Dominic, and Vincent. Andy’s love for his family was boundless, and he took pride in every moment spent with them.

Honoring Andy’s Memory

Visitation will be held at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Charleston on Wednesday, September 3, 2025, from 6–9 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Sacred Heart Grade School to help support students in need. This will continue Andy’s legacy of generosity and service.

Andy’s passing leaves an immeasurable void, but his spirit, vision, and values will continue to guide Centurion Insurance and inspire all who were fortunate enough to know him.

Rest in peace, Andy. Your leadership, kindness, and example will never be forgotten.