- Date Of Birth: January 6, 1932
- Date Of Death: February 7, 2019
- State: Illinois
James “Randy” Barksdale, 87, of Centralia, IL passed away Thursday, February 7, 2019 at his home. Randy was born January 6, 1932 in Vernon Hill, VA. Randy was the son of George Garland Barksdale and Gracie Lucy Lee (Keatts) Barksdale. He married Janet Joyce Heap on May 2, 1954.
She preceded him in death on May 20, 1993. Randy was an avid fisherman, loved to play music, loved giving to everyone, and loved his family. Randy was a Christian man that loved to spread the word of God. He was a member of the Shepherd’s Chapel Church. Randy was also a member of the American Legion Post 446 in Centralia, IL. He played in different bands for 25 years. Some of the bands included the Drifters, Farron Young, and Little Wally Polka Band. In his younger years, Randy worked for Turners Well Service by working on oil rigs. He then worked for Illinois Central Railroad where he helped build many coal cars.
After the railroad, he went to work for the City of Centralia and retired after 25 years of service. Later in life, he drove a school bus for 14 years with Beck Bus Company in Centralia, IL. In 1999, Randy met Janet Clark. Randy became a big part of her family and their families lives. Randy gained a daughter Colleen Bernard and husband Tom, a son Stewart Clark and wife Becky, three granddaughters Breann Stoodley and husband Ryan, Lacey Decker and Jennifer Vineyard and husband Shaun. His favorite part of his family was his five grandchildren Madison Vineyard, Madison Stoodley, Lane Vineyard, Kennedy Stoodley, Greyson Decker with Reagan Stoodley on the way. The first time that he was called Papa Randy the smile that lit up his face was priceless! Randy’s presence in his family’s life was big. You could always count on Randy to be there with Janet in tow!
He is also survived by one sister Mildred Robb and one brother George Barksdale. Randy was preceded in death by his parents George and Gracie Barksdale, wife Janet Barksdale, and sister Vernelle Spain. Thank you to everyone that touched Randy’s life. He truly loved each and every one of you!
