Randy J. Smith was received into the arms of his Lord Jesus Christ on November 16, 2025, surrounded by the family he loved more than anything in this world. Born and raised in South Tucson, Randy came from humble beginnings that shaped his grit, generosity, and unwavering work ethic. He learned early what it meant to push forward, work hard, and love fiercely, values he carried through every chapter of his life.

Randy graduated from Pueblo High School in 1977 and, following the footsteps of his family, proudly answered the call to serve. He enlisted in the United States Navy immediately after graduation and went on to serve four years of Active Duty before continuing his service in the Army Reserves and the Army National Guard. He completed nearly a decade in uniform and achieved the rank of Staff Sergeant, one of his proudest accomplishments. Randy shared stories from his military days until the very end; always with a grin, always with a lesson.

In 1982, Randy married the love of his life, Mary. Together they built a family grounded in love, laughter, and more than a few unforgettable adventures. Randy was a devoted husband and a proud father to Jesus (Gina), Danny (Angela), and Stefanie (David). As much as he loved being a dad, becoming a “Tata” was the greatest joy of his life. His grandchildren Carlos, Daniel, Andres, Adrian, Aidan, Martin, Adelyn, and great-granddaughter Emily were his heart and his happiness. Randy is also survived by his honorary son, Rene De La Ossa; his brother and best friend, Orlando (Cathy); and many nieces, nephews, godchildren, and loved ones. He was preceded in death by his parents, Joe Sr. and Lupe Smith; his siblings, Olga Torres, Delbert, Joe Jr., and Ronnie.

Randy was a lifelong learner and a tireless provider. While raising a family and building a career, he returned to school to earn a bachelor’s degree from the University of Phoenix; proof that hard work and determination were simply part of who he was. He went on to become a Sales Engineer and took tremendous pride in his work, including contributing to the construction of the federal courthouse in Tucson, where his name is engraved on a plaque outside the building.

But Randy was so much more than his accomplishments. He was a character, truly one of a kind. A natural storyteller with a quick wit and a mischievous streak, he could have a room laughing within seconds. He made friends everywhere he went. Losing him in a grocery store, restaurant, or parking lot was normal; finding him deep in conversation with complete strangers, now new friends, was even more normal. His humor was endless: his off-the-wall Christmas carols, his legendary “leaf-blowing” of the living room, his colorful jokes, and his uncanny ability to stir the pot just enough to make everyone shake their heads and laugh.

Randy loved being outdoors working in the yard with his blower, taking in the natural desert beauty, and spending time with family. He enjoyed scary movies, classic TV, and sharing life lessons with his kids, always reminding them that “every day gets better,” and, “no matter how great you think you are, someone out there is working harder…so keep going.” His children credit these words with helping shape the people they are today.

He adored his fur babies, Louie and Cora. He cherished every moment spent with family and friends, especially those long nights gathered around a bonfire. The family bonfires were legendary and weren’t officially “Randy-approved” until he proudly declared, “Now that’s a fi-ya (fire)!”

Randy leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, faith, and unforgettable stories. He will be deeply missed, but the echoes of his humor, his guidance, and his heart will continue to shape the family he devoted his life to.

A message for Randy:

Randy, Tata, Chief, Pops, Ol’ Pappy… Dad, do us a favor: storm into heaven like you own the place. Crank up the music. Dance with your mom and Olga. Give your dad one of those bear hugs that lifts him right off his feet. Get Junior, Miti, and Tumorhead laughing so hard the angels start filing complaints.

And if they send you to the corner for causing too much chaos, well… at least they’ll know you’ve arrived.

Watch over us. Send your unmistakable signs. And keep the party going up there.

We love you, Tata… Chief...Ol’ Pappy… Pops… Randy… DAD!

Memorial Mass, 11:00 AM, Saturday, December 13, 2025, Most Holy Trinity Catholic Parish, 1300 N. Greasewood Road, Tucson, Arizona 85745