Craig Wesley Randall

Craig Wesley Randall passed away peacefully at OCH Regional Medical Center on Tuesday April 11, 2017.  His wife Kathryn was by his side as Craig went home to eternal healing to be with his Lord Jesus Christ.  Craig was born on April 9, 1934, in Glen Cove, New York.  Many people that knew Craig knew him as "Coach Randall." He graduated in 1956 with a bachelor's degree in history from Colgate University in Hamilton, New York.  While in college at Colgate, Craig played football and lacrosse.  Craig was known for his beautiful singing voice and while at Colgate he also sang in the chapel choir.   In 1958, Craig finished his master's degree in social science, and he enlisted in the United States Army.  It was in the Army that Craig began his football coaching career.  Craig met the legendary football coach Colonel Earl "Red" Blaik, and Col. Blaik had him ordered to West Point Military Academy where Craig began coaching football, swimming, and lacrosse for Army. After his time serving and coaching in the Army, Craig moved on to Wichita State University as an assistant football coach.  From there, he moved on to Texas A&M coaching the Aggie defensive line from 1962-1964.  In 1965, Craig moved on to Louisiana State University.  From 1965-1977 Craig coached the LSU defensive line with the Tigers leading the nation in rushing defense in 1969 by allowing only 38.9 yards per game.  The 1970, LSU Tigers won the SEC Championship and also lead the nation in rushing defense.  After he completed his stint with LSU, Craig moved on to the United States Air Force Academy from 1978-79.  In 1979, Craig came to Starkville and Mississippi State University as part of Emory Bellard's coaching staff.  It was here in Starkville that he settled in, coaching at MSU from 1979-1982, working in the athletic department as an assistant athletic director from1982-1987, and then coaching again from 1987-1989.  Over his career Craig had the privilege of working with many wonderful coaches, players, trainers, and equipment staff.  He also coached 11 All Conference Players, 5 All Americans, and 10 Professional Players (one named AFC Rookie-of-the-Year).  After his coaching career ended in 1989, Craig stayed on at MSU working as an assistant planner with the MSU physical plant.  Craig might have been known to others as "Coach," but to his family he was known as a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He is survived by his wife of 45 years, Kathryn Perkins Randall, his sons David Craig Randall (Daria), Kevin Lynn Randall (Carrie Beth), and four grandchildren, Katie (12), Allie (8), Donovan Craig (3), and Dexter (1). Craig loved his family dearly and he enjoyed nothing more than spending time with his family, especially his four grandchildren.  He was an active member of the Starkville First United Methodist Church Choir for many years where he was able to enjoy his love for music and singing.  Craig also had a special love for the staff and patients at the OCH Cardiac Rehab.  He was extremely grateful for his caregivers and friends at cardiac rehab.
Visitation is scheduled for Thursday, April 13, 2017 from 5:00-7:00 p.m. at Welch Funeral Home in Starkville, MS. A family graveside service will be Friday, April 14, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. in Oddfellows Cemetery in Starkville.  Dr. Danny Rowland will conduct the service.
 In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to OCH Regional Medical Center Cardiac Rehab, P. O. Box 2585, Starkville, MS 39760 or the Starkville First United Methodist Church Choir, P. O. Drawer 1506, Starkville, MS 39760.     
You can leave the family a condolence at: www.welchfuneralhomes.com.