Randy C. Arrant Jr.

Randy Caldwell Arrant Jr., a devoted husband, loving father, gifted musician, passionate coach, and cherished friend, passed away following cardiac arrest, surrounded by the love of his family. Born on November 29, 1971, in San Diego, California, Randy spent the last 24 years making his home in Penacook, New Hampshire, where he built a beautiful life filled with family, friendship, music, faith, and community.

To know Randy was to love him. Charismatic, passionate, radiant, soulful, and unapologetically himself, Randy had an extraordinary ability to light up any room he entered. He wore his heart on his sleeve, loved without hesitation, and had a way of making everyone feel important, valued, and welcome. He was the kind of person who could be everyone's best friend, offering encouragement, laughter, wisdom, or simply a listening ear whenever it was needed. His faith in God, in people, and in the goodness of the world guided the way he lived his life.

Above all else, Randy was a loving and humble father who took immense pride in his two sons, Dillon and Daniel. Being their dad was one of his greatest joys, and he poured his heart into supporting their dreams, celebrating their accomplishments, and being present for every moment he could. Whether cheering from the sidelines, coaching their teams, or simply spending time together, Randy made sure his sons knew how deeply they were loved. He was equally devoted to his wife, Graziella, affectionately known as Chi Chi. Together, they shared a life of love, adventure, travel, and partnership. Randy was not only a wonderful husband but also her trusted companion and travel partner, always ready to experience something new by her side.

Randy's love for his family extended far beyond his immediate household. He was a devoted brother, an extraordinary uncle, a proud godfather, and a natural leader of the pack. Family gatherings were brighter because of his presence, and his love for those closest to him was evident in everything he did. Randy was always the first to offer help and the last to leave when someone needed him. He was the kind of man who made sure everyone else was safely taken care of before ever thinking of himself.

An exceptionally talented musician, Randy possessed a rare and remarkable gift. He could pick up nearly any instrument and play it, often after hearing a song just once. Music was woven into the very fabric of who he was. He loved playing, creating, and recording music, but perhaps even more meaningful was his passion for sharing that gift with others. As an inspiring drum instructor, Randy found tremendous joy in teaching children, nurturing their confidence, and helping them discover their own musical abilities. His patience, enthusiasm, and genuine belief in his students left a lasting impression on countless young musicians.

Randy was a passionate wrestler and drummer for the marching band in high school at Strafford High, South Carolina. That same passion carried into his later life- teaching and encouraging others made Randy an unforgettable presence in the Merrimack Valley lacrosse community. From the Blue Storm youth program through the high school level, Randy dedicated countless hours to coaching, mentoring, and inspiring young athletes. His involvement went far beyond teaching the fundamentals of a sport. He believed in building character, fostering teamwork, and helping children recognize their own potential. Whether coaching lacrosse or supporting any sport his sons and the Merrimack Valley community were involved in, Randy gave his time, energy, and heart without reservation. His influence will live on through the many young people whose lives he helped shape.

Randy earned his bachelor's degree in Information Technology from Granite State College. He worked for the State of NH for the last 20 years, and just recently got vested. A natural problem solver and exceptionally skilled craftsman, there seemed to be nothing he couldn't build, repair, or figure out. With a little determination and some assistance from his trusted companions, ChatGPT and YouTube, Randy could accomplish just about anything he set his mind to. He enjoyed playing disc golf, working on projects, making music, and spending time with the people he loved most. He was also incredibly passionate about football and eagerly anticipated Sundays during football season, a tradition that brought him great excitement and joy.

What made Randy truly extraordinary was not simply the many things he could do, but the way he made people feel. He lived with an open heart and an unwavering belief in others. He never pretended to be anyone other than himself, and that authenticity was one of his greatest gifts. Whether someone knew him for a lifetime or had only recently met him, they were welcomed by the same genuine, loving, energetic, and unforgettable Randy.

Randy leaves behind his beloved wife, Graziella "Chi Chi" Arrant; his cherished sons, Dillon Arrant and Daniel Arrant; his parents, Randy Arrant Sr. and Kathleen Arrant; and his sister, Andrea Arrant, and her spouse, Corey Delia.

He is also survived by his brothers- and sisters-in-law, Pedro and Kelly Godoi, Diogo and Jennifer Godoi, and Eddy and Neia Diaz.

Randy was a deeply loved uncle to Donna Jean Smith and her spouse, Aryn Saulter; Hope Marie Smith-Arrant; Paul David Smith and his spouse, Tori Smith; Lucas Godoi; Pedro Godoi and his spouse, Kylie Godoi; Natasha Plasker and her spouse, Corey Plasker; Eddy Diaz and his spouse, Skylar Diaz; Luciano Diaz; Luisa Godoi; and his beloved godson, Levi Godoi.

While Randy's passing leaves an immeasurable emptiness in the hearts of those who loved him, his legacy is one of extraordinary love, generosity, faith, and inspiration. He gave so much of himself to his family, his friends, his students, his athletes, and his community, never expecting anything in return. He taught those around him to believe in themselves, to embrace their passions, to love wholeheartedly, and to always lend a helping hand.

Randy was so many things to so many people: a husband, a father, a son, a brother, an uncle, a coach, a teacher, a musician, and a best friend. But above all, he was a truly beautiful soul who made the world brighter simply by being in it.

His music may have quieted, but the love he shared, the lives he touched, and the lessons he taught will continue to echo for generations.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Randy's memory to support their continued journey with Brasil Lacrosse, a cause that reflects his enduring passion for the sport, mentorship, and creating opportunities for young athletes. Donations may be made at:

https://gofund.me/38caf64c0

One Team. One Machine.

Bora Brasil!