Randall "Randy" Lee Daquanno, Sr.

Randall “Randy” Lee Daquanno, Sr. passed away on Monday, October 5, 2026, at the age of 72. He was a native and lifelong resident of Baton Rouge, LA. Randy graduated from Istrouma High School in 1972. Afterwards, he spent most of his life guided by an entrepreneurial spirit and a remarkable work ethic. For many years, he co-owned Evangeline Ceramics, where he and his wife, Rosemary, worked side by side creating beautiful ceramics together. Randy was not a man tall in stature but every day he moved around heavy ceramic molds, bringing joy and happiness to his customers. He was never afraid of hard work, but working with the molds and was more than just a job for him – it was one of his true passions. Randy also spent countless hours working his lawn care business. He always took great pride in making sure every blade was even and every sidewalk and driveway was edged to perfection. Later, he delivered packages for FedEx Ground, running his own delivery route. In his final working years, he continued doing what came naturally to him, working hard as a hot shot delivery driver, or “courier” as he would say. Randy and Rosemary met through their mutual friends. When Randy fell in love with Rosemary, he also embraced the family that came with her. He accepted without hesitation the responsibility of helping raise her son, Jason, whom Randy never treated as a stepson, but simply as his own. Randy and Rosemary were married on April 12, 1979, and theirs was truly a life built together. They worked side by side, faced life's hardships and responsibilities together, and were rarely anything other than a team. Together, they welcomed two more beautiful children, Lee and Angie. Their marriage endured until Rosemary's death on March 17, 2003, leaving Randy to carry on without her. In many ways, he never fully recovered from the loss of Rosemary. Faith was one of the most important foundations of Randy's life. A devout Catholic, he had a deep love for Jesus and a special devotion to the Blessed Mother. Our Lady of Mercy Catholic Church became an integral part of his life. For many years, he warmly welcomed and greeted parishioners and guests as a greeter. During his later life, Randy attended Mass daily, finding in his faith the strength, comfort, and purpose that remained with him.

During his working years, Randy was not a man with much time for hobbies. He was a worker, including Saturdays. Sunday was his day of rest. He enjoyed watching sports and preparing a delicious meal for his family. When life was good, Randy found joy in life’s simple pleasures. He always made time to squeeze in a James Bond movie or quick game of chess. Those who knew Randy will remember many things about him. His best attributes included his warm smile, his unmistakable laugh, his extraordinary work ethic, and the deep faith that sustained him through his later years. As the years passed, Randy became a changed man. His heart grew softer, his warmth more apparent, and his generosity became something those around him came to know well. By all accounts, he was known and genuinely loved by his neighbors and friends who shared his everyday life. Perhaps Randy's greatest legacy can be found in the three children he leaves behind. In Jason, Lee, and Angie live the best qualities of both Randy and Rosemary: their strength, devotion, perseverance, love of family, and faith. Through them, Randy and Rosemary will continue to touch lives with one another. Randy should be remembered for his strong work ethic and his faithfulness. Thank you, Randy for all the good that you shared with those who knew you, and may God bless you. Randy is survived by his children, Jason Melancon (Jennifer), Lee Daquanno (Chelsi), and Angela Musso (Josh); grandchildren, Olivia and Alyssa Melancon, Evie and Elliott Daquanno, and Nick, Isabella, and Oliver Musso; siblings, Carol Daquanno, Jr. (Cheryl) and Candy Norton (Charlie); nieces, Tammy and Nikki; nephew, Bubba; and a host of other family members and friends. Randy is preceded in death by his wife of 24 years, Rosemary Edwards Daquanno; and parents, Carol, Sr. and Thelma Daquanno. Visitation will be at Greenoaks Funeral Home, 9595 Florida Blvd., Baton Rouge, LA, on Thursday, October 8, 2026, from 9am until the memorial service at 11am. There will be a private burial at a later date.