Randall Lee Walden

Our family is heartbroken by the recent loss of our dad, Randall Lee Walden who passed away Monday, July 23, 2018. He was a kind hearted and loving man who was taken far too soon at only 57 years old. Randy was born April 27, 1961 to Wilbur Ray Walden and Beverly Ann (Newingham) Cross. He was preceded in death by his father. Randall was a loving father and will be missed by all who knew him for his fun, loving attitude and for how he loved those around him unconditionally. Surviving are children, Darren (wife, Lakin) Walden of Jacksonville, Shawnda (husband, John) Phillips of Springfield, Desah Walden of Jacksonville, Collin Thomas Walden of Jacksonville, Devin Walden of Jacksonville, Catie Walden and Cody Walden both of Columbia, MO; grandchildren, Sasha Phillips, Elijah Walden, Laina Walden, Evan Walden, Emerson Walden, Elliott Walden and Evelyn Thomas; special nephew, Craig “CJ” Walden Jr; and brothers, Dennis Walden, Steve Walden, Craig Walden, Kendall Walden, Neil Walden, and Andy Walden. He was preceded in death by brother, Walter Walden. Our dad loved being around his kids and enjoyed creating unique art pieces. He was a gifted artist and could sketch or draw anything-his favorite things to draw were hot rod cars and other crazy things from his imagination. He had a great sense of humor and loved to play with kids and entertain them by doing handstands and things like that. He was always something of an acrobat around the house and could be found walking around on his hands or doing pull ups in the doorway to amuse his kiddo’s. He had a love of music, good times, and Rock ’n’ Roll! We all have memories of hanging out and laughing with him and it’s hard to believe we no longer have him around. His gentle heart has created lasting memories in the hearts of many. We remember how much of a hard worker he had always been. Randall spent 15 years working for the Mobil Chemical Corporation (now Reynolds) and was known affectionately by many as “Paco.” He was always seen smiling and hanging out with his friends and family in photographs and just enjoying home life. He never wanted anything but to be chillin’ with those he loved and would tell those who were special to him how much he loved them. After Mobil, he worked for Jess Spradlin installing homes for many more years. He loved to listen to music and was an avid pool player. He used to teach his kids how to set up different shots and just spend time talking with them about their life. He was always tinkering around with little things and building models, plaques and generally just saw the potential in everything to be turned into a creative little work of art. He had the biggest heart. A celebration of life will be held 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. Tuesday, July 31, 2018, the Daws Family Funeral Home in South Jacksonville.

Randall Lee Walden

April 27, 1961 - July 23, 2018