Randall D. Strother

Randall D. Strother (Randy), left our world in the early morning hours of Sunday, March 26, 2023, after a short, but courageous, battle with cancer.  This gentle giant of a man left behind his pain and took his last breath with his mother and brother by his side.

Randy was born on March 1, 1966, in Indianapolis, IN to Carol Strother (Clements) and Franklin Strother.  He was raised in Lawrence, IN, where he attended Harrison Hill Elementary, Belzer Middle School and was a 1984 graduate of Lawrence Central High School.  Randy was a member of the Lawrence Central Marching Band all four years in high school, playing the tuba. He received numerous awards for his participation in the marching band. While at the hospital he started a story with…one time at band camp…everyone in the room held their breath for the next line. He never lost his sense of humor throughout his battle. To this day he remains friends with many of the classmates and bandmates he grew up with.

Promptly after graduating high school Randy joined the United States Army where he earned the distinction of Army Ranger in the 2^nd Platoon, A Company, 3D Ranger Battalion, 75^th Ranger Regiment being stationed in Hawaii for much of the time he served.  After returning home from the Army, he completed his BS in Criminal Justice from Indiana University School of Public and Environmental Affairs in 1994.  Many don’t use their degree as intended, but Randy did.  Randy was one to always protect others, which was evident in the early career choices. He worked several years as a Correctional Officer at the Pendleton Correctional Facility and later as a Parole Officer for the State of Indiana. After many years in public service, he spent the following 13 years as a pest control expert for Ecolab and Arrow Pest Control.  Randy’s favorite thing to encounter during his workday in pest control was a nope-rope (snake).  A snake always produced a good jump and a squeal.

Throughout the years, Randy was a very active member within his community.  He was a member of the Masonic Lodge Madison 44 in Pendleton, IN where he proudly served his community.  For many years, Randy and his family were involved with the Indianapolis Swiss Club and honoring his children’s heritage on their mother’s side of the family.  Randy studied Judo, earning all the belts and his 1^st Dan Black Belt.  He enjoyed building and woodworking when he was given the chance and helping friend’s complete projects around their homes. He enjoyed cooking and had future plans to become the next pit boss, spending countless hours watching videos of smoking meats while enduring his chemotherapy treatments.

Randy had a very artistic side and taught himself to paint by watching Bob Ross videos. As the cancer quickly progressed, he found his calm by listening to the soothing sound of Bob Ross’ voice.

Of all things, his greatest joy were his children.  Randy was so proud of his son Brian and daughter Megan, both of Westfield, Indiana.  He was such a proud father as Brian graduated from college.  Randy always spoke of Brian’s intelligence and his ability to cook.  He was so proud of Megan, her work ethics, and her artistic ability.  He eagerly shared her artwork when given a chance.  He often spoke of the sweet memories he held dear; those of his children’s milestones and achievements as they grew into adulthood.

Randy is survived by his children, Megan and Brian Strother, both of Westfield, IN; his mother Carol Clements (Mike) of Punta Gordo, FL; brothers Greg Strother (Tina) of Southport, IN, and Jeff Strother (Heather) of Lebanon, IN.  He is also survived by his beloved aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews and great nephew and nieces.

Randy is preceded in death by his father, Frank Strother grandparents, George and Lara Strother, and Lyle and Rena Knight.

The legacy of a man is measured by those that loved him. Randy has touched the hearts of those he has met throughout the years. He always had a kind word to share, a wicked good sense of humor, an infectious laugh, a gentle and kind heart, and most of all his courageous strength during his fight with the cancer that he was so determined to win.  Randy was loved by his family and friends beyond measure, and he loved them wholeheartedly in return.  He may no longer be with us, but his memory will live on in those that loved him.

Rest in peace our dear Randy, we will all be reunited with you someday, including his beloved dogs, Gibbs and DiNizzo.

Visitation will be held from 2:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. on Friday, March 31, 2023, at Flanner Buchanan – Oaklawn Memorial Gardens (Conner Suite), 9700 Allisonville Road, Indianapolis, IN 46250.  Funeral services will immediately follow, beginning at 4:00 p.m.  Burial in Oaklawn Memorial Gardens Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, Randy wished contributions would be made to the American Cancer Society or St. Jude Children’s Hospital.