Felix "Phil" Dominick Rando

Felix "Phil" Dominick Rando, cherished husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away at the age of 74 on October 13, 2025, in New Orleans, Louisiana. surrounded by his beloved wife, Kathryn Mire Rando, and their four children, Amy, Brian, Laura, and Mary Claire.

Born on June 11, 1951, in New Orleans, Louisiana, Phil was raised in Marrero, where he would go on to build his life and raise his family. He graduated from Archbishop Shaw High School in 1969 and earned a Bachelor of Science in Microbiology from the University of Southwestern LA (now known as the University of Louisiana at Lafayette).

Phil dedicated 17 years of his professional life as a Lab Technician at AMAX Nickel Refinery, followed by a fulfilling career at Chevron Oak Point until his retirement in 2014. His love of precise measurements and attention to detail shined through so many aspects of his life, beyond his career.

Known affectionately as "Phil," he was a man of deep calmness and selflessness. He had an extraordinary talent for making everyone feel welcomed and appreciated; Phil never met a stranger. His wry sense of humor remained bright even amid his struggles with illness, demonstrating his remarkable resilience.

In his earlier years, Phil was an avid runner, embracing the challenge of marathons and numerous races, which complemented his love for swimming and biking. These passions not only showcased his physical and mental strength but also his zest for life. Following retirement, Phil loved traveling with Kathryn and their family and found great peace in tending to his garden, creating calming spaces for himself and loved ones. Cooking for his family brought him so much joy. Making meals to order, catering to all around him. Above all else, Phil loved spending time with his five grandchildren—Cole Anthony, Amélie Thérèse, Jean-Felix, Olivia Grace, and Gabriella Elizabeth.

Phil’s faith and commitment to his community were profound. He and Kathryn were devoted parishioners of St. Joseph the Worker Church for 36 years, where he generously volunteered his time in various ministries. Recently, he was honored to be commissioned as an Associate of the Congregation of St. Joseph, alongside his beloved wife. Phil was also the recipient of The Order of St. Louis, recognizing his outstanding service and dedication.

He leaves behind a legacy of compassion and kindness, deeply missed by his loving family. Phil is survived by his beloved wife of 52 years, Kathryn, and their four children: Amy Billeaudeaux and her husband, Jean-Luc Billeaudeaux; Brian Dominick Rando; Laura April and her husband, Robert "Bobby" April, III; and Mary Claire Rando. He was a proud grandfather to Cole Rando, Amélie Billeaudeaux, Jean-Felix Billeaudeaux, Olivia April, and Gabriella April. Phil will be missed by his brother, Dominick Rando, Jr. and wife Catherine Rando, and sister, Margaret Hunt and husband Gary Hunt, as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends whose lives he touched.

Phil was preceded in death by his parents, the late Dominick Vincent Rando, Sr. and Santa Marie Tuminello Rando, and his Godchild and Nephew, Dominick Anthony Rando.

Visitation will be held on October 24, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM, with a Rosary at 10:00 AM, at St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church in Marrero, followed by a Mass from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM. Following the Mass, Phil will be laid to rest at Westlawn Memorial Park in Terrytown at 12:30 PM.

As we remember Felix "Phil" Dominick Rando, may we carry forward his legacy of faith, strength, laughter, and relentless kindness. His memory will forever remain a guiding light in the lives of all who were fortunate enough to know him.

Thank you to the team of Leukemia Doctors and Nurses at MD Anderson Cancer Center, under the direction of Dr. Courtney DiNardo. Along with the Stem Cell Transplant Team of Doctors and Nurses at Houston Methodist, under the direction of Dr. Rammurti Kamble.