Randall Franklin Lanham Jr

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Randall Franklin Lanham Jr, 87, of Oakwood, IL on July 7, 2026 at Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana, IL. He was our beloved husband, brother, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather whose greatest joy in life was his family and friends.

After a career as a long-haul truck driver he retired and enjoyed the simple things in life. Whether it was helping with local harvests, participating in tractor pulls, or watching NASCAR races, he found joy and happiness in the moments. He proudly served his country in the Army National Guard, a reflection of his lifelong sense of duty and commitment to others.

Nothing meant more to him than his family. He rarely missed a grandchild’s sporting event, school activity, or special occasion, always showing up to cheer them on. He treasured every opportunity to spend time with his children and grandchildren, creating memories they will hold close forever.

Known for his ornery personality and playful sense of humor, he loved giving everyone a hard time and always had a joke or witty remark ready to bring a smile. His daily trips to Casey's in Oakwood became a cherished tradition, where he enjoyed visiting with friends and neighbors and never met a stranger.

He was the kind of man who would drop everything to lend a helping hand whether someone needed advice, assistance, or simply someone to count on. He was always there with his kindness, dependability, and generous spirit that touched countless lives.

Though he will be deeply missed, his legacy lives on through the love he shared, the laughter he inspired, and the examples he set. His family and friends will forever remember his unwavering love, his hardworking nature, and the countless moments of joy he brought to those around him.

His memory will be treasured always and his presence forever missed, but the love he gave will remain in the hearts of all who knew him.

Randall was born on June 20, 1939 the son of Randall Phillips and Marjorie Louise (Edwards) Lanham Sr, in Danville, IL. He married Teresa L. Pogue on May 10, 1980 in Danville, IL.

Survivors include his wife, Teresa Lanham of Oakwood, IL, his dog, Mya, his children, Sharri Richardson of Gold Canyon, AZ, Lori (Denny) Smoot of Cherry Valley, IL, Randall “Skip” (Emily) Lanham of Roscoe, IL, Andrew (Stephanie) Myers of Mahomet, IL and Christopher (Amy) Myers of Danville, IL, his grandchildren, James “Bubba”, Jamie, Greg, Steven, Jospeh, Bailey, Kyle, Peyton, Taylor, Kaitlyn and Mia, his great grandchildren, Lincoln, Ellie, Averie, Capri, Jax, Hudson, Brantlee, Sophie, Jameson and Maverick, as well as one sister, Sally (Roy) Armes of Danville, IL and several nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.

Randall is preceded in death by his parents, one son, James Lanham, one grandson Franklin “Frankie” Lanham and one sister, Marjorie Canzano

A Celebration of Life will be held at 11:00 AM on Thursday, July 16, 2026 at Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center in Oakwood, Illinois 105 East S. Main St. Oakwood, Illinois 61858. Stephanie Spangler will officiate. Burial will be in Oak Hill Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 9:00-11:00 AM on Thursday, July 16, 2026 at the funeral home.

The family invites you to share memories, photos, and messages of comfort on his tribute wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com .