Lee Van Randall Jr.

OCTOBER 13, 1944 – JANUARY 4, 2016

“I have slipped the surly bonds of earth, my soul rises on eagle’s wings.”

Lee Van Randall, Jr., aged 71 departed this earthly life on January 5, 2016 at his residence in Bayou Sorrell, LA. A devoted son, brother, uncle and friend to many, Lee Van will always be remembered for his quick wit, perpetual smile, and the way he loved life. He enters into the loving arms of his precious God preceded in death by his mother, Florence Holland Randall Stallings, grandparents, L.D. and Rosa Holland, uncle, L.D. “Buck” Holland, Jr, aunt, Myrtle Fisher and beloved aunt Louise Dougherty. He is survived by his loving sisters; Amelia Beadle and husband, Wade and Melinda Stallings. Lee Van was entirely devoted to his two nieces, Jacquelyn Elisabeth Thompson and Rachael Marie Thompson and provided love and guidance to the two “lights of his life.”

A 1963 graduate of Istrouma High School, he loved to work. Lee Van began his career on the tugboats on the Mississippi River where he worked with his uncles. He then worked as a Sprinkler Fitter for Grinnell Sprinklers with Tom Delaney. After being accepted into and completing the apprenticeship at Plumbers and Steamfitters Local Union #198 he retired in 1995 after 30+ years of service. He was a member of the Bayou Sorrel Baptist Church where he enjoyed the fellowship of his friends in the congregation. His pastor, Tim Webb will perform the services for Lee Van. He has been a member of Plaquemine’s Acacia Lodge #116 since 1993 and is a dual member of Port Allen’s Blazing Star #212. Lee Van was a 32nd degree Mason and a Shriner.

Lee Van loved life. He was an avid Tiger fan but he was really happiest when he was helping someone – or sitting on the pier drinking coffee. He was an incredible cook and so many of us will miss his amazing jambalayas, gumbos, pastalayas, fried turkeys, slow cooked delights and his treats from the grill. He loved his camp in the Atchafalaya Basin and the beauty it held. He was always behind the camera making sure he caught all of the moments that make up life. He was a giver, a true man of God, loving unconditionally and completely. The world is a better place because he was in it.

Visitation to honor Lee Van’s life will be held at Green Oaks Funeral Home, 9595 Florida Boulevard on Friday, January 8th from 5:00 to 9:00 p.m. Visitation will resume from 12:00 – 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 9th. Chapel service at 2:00 with graveside services immediately thereafter.