Randall (Randy) John Darnell

Randall (Randy) John Darnell, 66, passed away suddenly at his home in Fort Myers, Fla., on Jan. 14, 2017. He was born in Martin, Tenn., on Jan. 11, 1951. He graduated high school in Bartlett, Tenn., and obtained a bachelor's degree in political science from Memphis State University. While in college, Randy was in the ROTC program and upon graduation was commissioned as a 2nd lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force and stationed in Blytheville, Ark. Randy began his career in the jewelry business by becoming a store manager in Altamonte Springs, Fla., and, later, in Jackson, Tenn. He was then promoted to Stiffts Jewelers in Little Rock, Ark., and he worked as manager there for almost 20 years. After this, Randy built a career as a traveling sales representative for various jewelry lines. Known as "Pappy Randy" to his grandsons, he would play tirelessly with them during his visits. He also loved his dogs Daisy (deceased) and Cassie. His outgoing and energetic personality made him a friend to everyone and a success in his sales career. He was a member of Moorings Presbyterian Church in Naples, Fla., where he sometimes worked the cameras. Randy was a beloved son, husband, father, and grandfather who was deeply devoted to his family. He is survived by his wife of 20 years, Dr. Jeanie Darnell; son, Dr. Scott Darnell (Natalie); mother, Maxine Darnell; siblings, Richard Darnell (Candace) and Lori Cothron (Jim); and grandchildren, Owen, Henry, and Benjamin Darnell. He was preceded in death by his father, John Darnell. Visitation will be held at Moorings Presbyterian Church of Naples, Fla., on Saturday, Jan. 21, at 9 a.m. for family and 9:30 a.m. for friends. A memorial service will follow at 11 a.m. and will conclude with lunch in the Fellowship Hall. Donations in honor of Randy can be made to the Annual Fund at The Anthony School in Little Rock, AR, the Bearded Collie Society of Florida, or the Fort Myers-Humane Society. Arrangements are by Fort Myers Memorial Gardens Funeral Home and Cemetery. They can be contacted at 1-877-936-0555 or on their website www.fortmyersmemorial.com.