Obituary published on Legacy.com by James & Gahr Mortuary - Salem on Aug. 7, 2025.
Evelyn Randall, of
Salem, Missouri, passed away peacefully at Presbyterian Manor Nursing Center in Rolla, Missouri, surrounded by her family, on Sunday, August 3, 2025, at the age of 96. Evelyn was born on July 25, 1929, in Sumter County, Alabama, to the late William Robert and Leona Pearl (Lowe) McDonald. On September 3, 1947, she was united in marriage to the late Virgil A. McClung, and together they were blessed with three children. Later, on October 30, 1975, she married Frank Randall. With this union, their two families were joined, creating a blended family of five children. A devoted homemaker, Evelyn dedicated her life to raising her family. She served as a room mother while her children were in school; always showing up with homemade treats and never missing a class event. As her children grew older, she became a teacher's aide, continuing to support and care for young students. Evelyn was a longtime member of Salem United Methodist Church, where she was active for many years. She sang in the choir, prepared communion regularly, and often hosted visiting missionaries in her home. She had a heart for hospitality and a love for creativity; spending time sewing, knitting, and doing macramé. She lovingly made many of her daughter's clothes while she was growing up. A passionate traveler, Evelyn visited Germany, Czechoslovakia, and other destinations, and once served as a chaperone for a senior class trip to Disney World. She also enjoyed day trips to St. Louis to cheer on her beloved St. Louis Cardinals. Known for her warmth, wit, and generous spirit, Evelyn was the life of the party and loved being the center of attention. She was a wonderful cook and baker, often gathering her family for delicious home-cooked meals after church and on holidays. Above all, Evelyn was a loving and devoted mother, grandmother, and friend who will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. She is survived by her children: Evelyn L. Land of
Salem, MO; John W. McClung and wife Nancy of
Salem, MO; and Thomas F. McClung and wife Jana of Punta Gorda, FL; her bonus children: Bjorn Randall and wife Cheryl of Elko, NV; and Tillie Coswan of Canada; grandchildren: John W. McClung III and wife Melissa, Nathan McClung and wife Lauren, Oliver McClung and wife Shawna, Jennifer McKnight and wife Katy, and Thomas McClung Jr. and wife Jessika; and her half-siblings: Owen McDonald, Lanetta Fowler, Felix McDonald, Henry McDonald, Myrtle Tidwell, and Vera Dobb. She is also survived by a host of great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends. In addition to her parents, Evelyn was preceded in death by her granddaughter, Tonya McClung; and her siblings: Edwin McDonald, Doris McDonald, William McDonald, James McDonald, Hettie Lee Wright, Evan McDonald, and Eliza Dozier. Funeral services will be held at the Salem Chapel of the James & Gahr Mortuary on Friday, August 8, 2025, at 1:00 PM, with Billy Miller officiating. Visitation will be held at the chapel prior to the service from 12:00PM until service time.