J. Lonny "Randy" Randolph, 70, of
Vineland, NJ, died at his home on Thursday, Oct. 2, 2008 of
complications from cancer. Although he had been fighting a courageous
battle with the disease over the past three years, his death was
unexpected.
Randy was the son of the late
Elizabeth Randolph Bettler and step-son of the late Paul Bettler. He was
born in Salem, NJ, and lived at varying times during his childhood in
New Jersey and New York City. While living in New York, he enlisted in
the U.S. Air Force, serving both stateside and overseas, and later
attended Temple University. He had lived in Bridgeton prior to moving to
Vineland almost 30 years ago.
Randy was a true Renaissance Man and
polymath. He loved reading and writing poetry, listening to a variety of
music, and reading books on just about any subject. He had an amazing
grasp of history, especially as it related to military events and
international affairs. He had an unquenchable thirst for knowledge. He
was also a photography enthusiast, and documented his life in pictures.
If he asked if he could take your picture, he liked you! He was an
unparalleled good soul.
Although retired because of his
illness, Randy had most recently been employed at the Buena Vista
Country Club, and enjoyed his very early morning groundskeeping job
there. He loved nature and animals and was happy toiling alongside the
flora and fauna he encountered there. He had held other jobs earlier in
his life, but none so satisfying as this. His co-workers at Buena were
his second family.
Randy is survived by his wife, Diane
King Randolph of Newport, NJ; his daughter, Heather Lynn Randolph, also
of Newport, of whom he was very proud; his maternal aunt, Anne (Mrs.
Arthur) Boss, of Bridgeton; and many cousins. He was also predeceased by
several aunts and uncles: Erle Randolph,
Everett ("Randy") Randolph, Peggy
Hickman, and Jeanne Uhland; and his grandparents, Howard and Lucy Brauch.
He is also survived by his dear and
unmatched friends of many years, Joe, Donna, Marie, and Jason of
Vineland. They know who they are.
After cremation, an informal
gathering to honor Randy's memory will be announced at a later date for
anyone wishing to attend.
Donations in Randy's memory may be
made to the Cumberland County A.S.P.C.A., 1244 N. Delsea Dr., Vineland,
NJ, 08360.
Funeral arrangements are under the
direction of the PADGETT FUNERAL HOME. Written condolences may be sent
to the family through the funeral home website at
www.padgettfuneralhome.com.
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