Lieutenant Colonel Randolph “Randy” Meade, USA (Ret) passed away peacefully on April 25, 2026 from complications of Parkinson’s Disease and Lewy Body Dementia. Randy was born September 2, 1946 in Letcher County, Kentucky to Roy and Nannie (Polly) Meade.

The family moved from Kentucky to Warren, Ohio in the early 1950’s, and Randy graduated from Warren G. Harding High School in 1964. He joined the Army and went on to serve two tours in Vietnam. He returned with a direct commission as an officer. Randy enjoyed various service stations and positions. Some of his favorites were in Germany, Turkey, and South Korea. During his service, he was awarded the Legion of Merit, Distinguished Flying Cross, the Bronze Star Medal and numerous other meritorious awards.

After more than 23 years in the Army, Randy retired in San Antonio, TX. He spent much of his time on the golf course and working part-time for Judson ISD Adult and Community Education. He also spent years volunteering as usher coordinator at Cross Roads Church (Formerly John Calvin Presbyterian) in Windcrest, TX. He married Diane Crawford in 2001. After moving to Springfield, MO in 2020, Randy enjoyed Rock Steady Boxing and Music Therapy with the Parkinson’s Group of the Ozarks.

Randy and Diane enjoyed many years traveling, boating, doing puzzles, and watching crime shows. They loved spending all the time they could together. Randy had a great sense of humor and enjoyed joking with friends and family. His laugh was contagious.

Randy was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Elllis; and both sons, John and Curtis. He is survived by his loving wife, Diane; sisters Judy Wood and Sandra Cabral (Mark) and brother James (Deborah); as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and in-laws.

The family would like to thank the Missouri Veterans Home in Mt. Vernon, MO for the tremendous care he received. Randy lived there for nearly three years and the staff always treated him with love and respect.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Parkinson’s Group of the Ozarks, www.parkinsonsgroup.org, or a charity of your choice.

Memorial service will be held May 6, 2026 at 11:00 AM in Trinity Presbyterian Church at 1900 S. Barataria St., Springfield, Missouri 65804, followed by inurnment in Missouri Veterans Cemetery at 2:00 PM, 5201 S. Southwood Rd.