Melissa Juren

Randall Gardner

Lovestrong Cremation Center 

Randall Craig Gardner (1957 - 2025) passed away peacefully surrounded by his children on Friday, August 15, 2025 in Longview, Texas.

Randy was a self-taught architect and construction materials estimator as well as an accomplished programmer.  He married his wife Yolanda in 1983 and remained married for 39 years, during which time he raised three children, Melissa, Ben, and Merik.

Randy was known for his giving nature and passion for the Lord, which he demonstrated early in his life by spending several years doing missionary work in Belize and later in life by becoming involved in prison ministry.  He was also a proud veteran who served his country in the Navy before getting married.

Randy is survived by the mother of his children, Yolanda Gardner; his children, Melissa Juren (Jason Juren), Ben Gardner, and Merik Gardner; and his grandchildren, Michael Juren, Juliet Juren, and Jillian Juren.  He was preceded in death by his mother, Jeri Carlin.

A private memorial service will be held in September for close friends and family.  In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Houston Food Bank in Randy’s memory.

Randy’s kindness, generosity, and love for his family will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew him.  He believed in building not just structures, but also relationships and memories that stand the test of time.

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Randall "Randy" Craig Gardner

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