He was born in Norwich, and grew up the son of Michael and Karine (Miller) Heard of Quaker Hill, and father Ronald Johnston of Gales Ferry. He attended Waterford schools and graduated from Waterford High School in 2006.
After high school, Randy pursued a path unfamiliar to many he knew. He sought after, and achieved, success as a high fashion model with Ford Models Europe and New York City. Although his time was brief, he worked hard to promote his personal success in a high pressure industry.
When he came into your presence, he had the ability to bring a smile and laughter to all. Randy had many friends and diverse interests. He played drums in a local band, The Electric Noise Act, and enjoyed skateboarding, art, soccer, and music. He enjoyed boating with his family and was an avid reader.
Randy truly enjoyed seeing different places, cultures and people, which his modeling career afforded him the opportunity to do.
Randy is survived by his supportive and loving parents, Mike and Karine, as well as his best friends, brother, Brent Johnston and sister, Madison Heard. His Uncle, "Iggy" Erik Miller, as well as grandparents, Robert and Faye Miller of Ledyard and Carl and Joyce Heard of Florida will miss him greatly.
His easy smile, and life loving presence, will be forever missed by all who were blessed to know him.
Memorial donations may be made in his name to the CT Humane Society, 701 Russell Rd., Newington CT 06111 or online at www.cthumane.org
Calling hours will be from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. on Wednesday. A viewing will be from 10 to 11 a.m. on Thursday followed by a celebration of Randy's life at 11 a.m. on Oct. 16, 2008, at Lester Gee Funeral Home, 108 Blinman St., New London.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Cindy (Shinsky) Johnson
December 18, 2008
Karine, Mike, and Family,
I am so very sorry for your loss. I can't even imagine the pain and loss you feel. My heart goes out to you. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
Samantha (Lovell)Hall
October 30, 2008
Karine,Mike and Family
I am so sorry to hear of your loss, you are in my prayers and thoughts.
October 23, 2008
Karine, Mike, Brent and Madison-
My sincere condolences to you. My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family.
Love ya, Mel
Rob Harjani
October 22, 2008
Randy was the one who use to make everyone smile around and he was good friend at the same time. I only knew for Senior year of high but he was great person and always helped his friends. He will be missed. My prays go out to his family members.
Kimberly McBride
October 20, 2008
Karine, Mike, Brent, Madison & Family,
We were so saddened to hear about your loss of Randy. I had the pleasure of meeting Randy a few times at your house and he was always very nice & polite.
I remember when Karine sent us the photos from his modeling shoot & how proud not only his family was but we were too. I forwarded those photos on to everyone because as friends we celebrate their successes and accomplishments as much as our own.
Randy was a gorgeous young man with beautiful bone structure just like his mom. I had seen him in his mohawk and band days and then seeing him in his modeling stage and how much he had grown and matured as an individual.
I can't imagine the pain and grief that you are all feeling right now but please know that you have friends that are here for you if you need anything at all! May your memories and times of joy spent together and the beautiful scrapbooks that I know that you have created help to keep his memory alive and ever present in your life. Take care and remember we love you. Love, The McBride's
Kim, Kevin, Sean & Erin xoxo
Laura Stanley
October 19, 2008
I am deeply sorry for your loss. Growing up, I went to school with Randy. He always brought a smile to my face whether it was on the bus or in the hallways and for that, I am truly grateful. His smile and laugh had the ability to light up any room he entered. Randy's positive, upbeat attitude and personality could be felt all over school. He was a good friend to many, he will be greatly missed, and will never be forgotten. I am very sorry to hear about your loss. Randy's family and friends are in my thoughts and prayers.
BECKY DART
October 17, 2008
DEAR,RON & FAMILY
WE ARE SO SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS.
HE WAS A VERY GOOD MAN WHO WAS TAKEN FROM HIS FAMILY WAY TO SOON. OUR THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU NOW AND FOR EVER.AGAIN SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS.
YOUR FRIEND,JIM DART,BECKY DART, DALE,
Kerrie Craven (Nix)
October 17, 2008
Karine, I am so sorry for your loss. I hope you remember me from Ledyard High School, Kerrie Craven (Nix). I did not get the privledge of meeting your son but I hear he was a really nice person. I have thought of you many times since graduation and wondered how you were doing. God bless you and your family. You are in my prayers.
s g
October 17, 2008
So sorry for your loss
Robyn Giarrusso
October 17, 2008
Dearest Karine, I don't know if you remember me, but I spoke with you on the phone several years ago. I spoke to my son Jeff a couple of days ago and found out about Randi; he is absolutey devastated as is everyone. I met Randi and know that he touched everyone's lives with his uniqueness and colorful personality. I am deeply sorry for your loss and I am here if you need me.
In sympathy, love, and frienship,
Robyn Giarrusso
Kathy Vallone
October 16, 2008
I got to meet Randy during his senior year of high school in Mr. Musco's class. He was always laughing and talking about his music. He was so excited to be going with "mom" on his first photo shoot. I send my deepest sympathy to you and your family.
Kathy Vallone
Waterford High School
Olga Gubochkina
October 16, 2008
Michael and Karine,
thank you for your son. He was a beauty embodiment on the earth.
I grieve that all of us have lost this embodiment and sunny person.
Robert Nowland
October 16, 2008
From the day I met Randy, everytime he was around there was a smile on my face. Randy was realistic and kind and He will be missed by everyone who knew met him.
Jeanne Beaudouin
October 16, 2008
My sincere condolenceses to the Johnston family.I got to meet Randy during a photo shoot and we were all so struck by his friendliness and love of life.It was a priviledge to meet him and we'll never forget the impact he had on us.He was a ray of sunshine.
Agatha Mortensen
October 16, 2008
I learned you passed yesterday, and I feel sunk sunk sunk. There's a heavy knot in my throat as I type this, my heart is in so many pieces, I can't seem to fix it right now.
I've always thought there were people with such good souls, that no matter what they did in life, there were things imprinted on their souls that made them so golden, nothing could erase the good in you. Your soul was so golden.
I know the mourning I'm in will stop someday, all the memories of your smile will glue everything back together, this I know.
It will never replace you.
You are irreplaceable.
evelyn machung
October 15, 2008
Karine and Mike,
We are so sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
John and Evelyn Machung
Andi Boguszewski
October 15, 2008
To all the Johnston family,
I had the privilege of a very unique and special relationship as an educator - I was a mentor or advisor to a kind, caring, and sensitive young man, your Randy.
I also had Randy in a variety of classes over the years. During our time together over those four years, he became a special part of my WHS family of teenagers.
From classes to classwork, skateboarding routines to the latest music trivia, elite discussions of outside novels, or the "SAT word of the day", to how the weekend was, how school was going, friends, or the latest hairdo or outfit, Randy was always "in the know".
I was able to witness first hand that he brought out the best in his peers, and would assist those in need at his own expense. He was an extremely talented young artist, who often doodled some fine interpretations along with annotations of course lectures in his notebooks!
He added so much sunshine and laughs to some lively study skills sessions. He was an eclectic young man - a "free spirit" his classmates would fondly say. They looked to him for support and friendship and he treasured each and every one of them.
A young man of words, well-read, musical, artistic, and handsome - with a winsome smile, twinkling eyes, and oh, those hairdos! He actually discussed gels and sprays with me and my opinion of the most reasonable, yet most efficient!
He and so many members of his class have provided so many great memories for me. I am proud of what he accomplished in his short time, and for all the "footprints" he has left behind.
"We can help a person to be himself by our willingness to steep ourselves temporarily in his world, in his private feelings and experiences. By our affirmation of the person he is, we give him support and strength to take the next step in his own growth." - Clark Moustakas
My thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
Fondly as ever,
"Mrs. B"
Andi Boguszewski
Catheryn Brousseau
October 15, 2008
Karine
I am so sorry to hear of your loss, you are in my prayers and thoughts
Cathey (Ryder) Brousseau
Shawna Bottinelli
October 15, 2008
randy took me to my first thrift store and got me a grey soccer shirt. i still wear it to this day.I'll never understand how he wore thoose tight pants tho.. they always made me smile. I love how he never cared what anybody thought he was just happy being him. He was always the person that i would turn to when i needed a good laugh, and when i needed to see a warm friendly smile.Love ya man. You'll forever be in our hearts.
Adam Blinderman
October 15, 2008
Randy was one of my first new friends in middle school, we had math and science togather, probably one of the reasons I didnt do so well in the classes. He was a good kid and always made me smile. That year for my birthday he gave me and Offspring Cd, which is still one of my favorites. I will always remember him and smile when ever i her Walla walla one of his favorite songs from it.
You had a good run kid.
Jen Longsdorf
October 15, 2008
I am so sorry for your loss and I send my deepest sympathy. My heart, thoughts, and prayers are with you and your family. Being Randy's neighbor, he always managed to make me laugh and smile. Walking to and from the bus stop and waiting for the bus to come every day, Randy always helped to start the mornings and end the afternoons on a cheerful note. He had a deep passion for music and I always enjoyed hearing him practice in his garage after school from my house. I also enjoyed discussing our modeling careers, and listening to his stories of his achieved success as a high fashion model. Randy was a good friend, musician, and model. He will forever be missed.
Lori Cirillo
October 15, 2008
Karine and Family,
My heart is just broken for you and your family. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. The pain must be unbearable, but I know that you have will have much support in days, months, and years to come from family and friends. I have faith that Randy is now helping you Karine as a very special angel, and he will always be with you in your heart and in spirit. God bless you all. Love, Lori
merle mayfield
October 15, 2008
Karine I was so sorry to hear about Randy. My thoughts and prays are with you. Love Merle
Andre Parker
October 15, 2008
Mike, Karine, Brent, and Madison,
My thoughts and prayers are with you all. He will missed by all who new him.
The Parkers
Teresa & Annie Preston
October 15, 2008
Karine,
Words can not even begin to describe how sorry we are for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Eliza Helmerich
October 15, 2008
Randell will be kept in good memory all over the world! I know he is in good hands - whereever he may be. He will always be my crazily beautiful intellectual inspiration from across the pond.
God Peace and Strength be with you and dry your tears.
In Love, a german friend from London
Margueritte & Ian Brogan
October 14, 2008
Dear Karine and family
we are very sorry to hear of Randys passing, Our thoughts and prayers are with you
Katy Renehan
October 14, 2008
Randy brought many smiles to my face over the years we attended school together. Being in his presence brightened my day and he could always make me laugh. I was lucky to know such a beautiful and loving person. The memories I have of Randy will forever bring joy to my life. You will be greatly missed Randy.
Gary Urbani
October 14, 2008
Ron,
We are so sorry about your loss,our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Love always Gary and Jean Urbani
Gary Urbani
October 14, 2008
Ron
We are so sorry for your loss are thoughts and prayers are with you.
Love Always, Gary and Jean Urbani
Sandra (Ryder) Halleck
October 14, 2008
You all have my deepest sympathy and will always be in my prayers.
Everardo & Sandra Garcia
October 14, 2008
Mike & family
Our deepest sympathy to you and your Family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and all of your family.
Michelle Rowe
October 14, 2008
Karine & Family,
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. My thoughts are with you.
Denise Picou
October 14, 2008
Karine and Mike,
So Sorry to hear the loss of your beutiful son. Us Hair Unique salon people are thinking of yall. Your in my prayer at this time.
Jean LaPointe
October 14, 2008
Karine and Family, My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family. May God give you strength to get through this very difficult time. I am so deeply sorry for your loss.
Paola
October 14, 2008
Goodbye kiddo, we are sure you have already found a drum kit in the sky...
We'll miss your smiling face and beautiful soul,
Your friends at Levi's
Kimberly Thibeau
October 14, 2008
To the Johnston Family-
I had the pleasure of having Randy as a student in one of my senior English classes. He always came to class ready to learn, talk, and listen. He helped make the class fun and interesting. He was a wonderful young man. He will be missed. My thoughts and prayers go out to you at this time.
love, lyndsey
October 14, 2008
Madison-
I am really sorry about your "B"-always remember all the fun times you had with him.
Casey bidwell
October 14, 2008
Like James Ill never forget the times we had making music with the Molotov Skunx. That was an awesome time in my life that helped mold me into who i am today. I always talk about how good we where and am proud of the accomplishments we made as a group. More importantly you where a great friend . i will miss the times at the twins house and in my basement jamin and chillen. love ya man.
Tami & scott Kersteter
October 14, 2008
Karine & Mike
We are so sorry for your loss. Your family is in our thoughts and prayers.
Taylor Palmer
October 14, 2008
I had not seen Randy in quite some time but we used to ride the late bus together. I used to see him riding his bike around Quaker Hill and was blessed enough to be one of the many Randy made smile and laugh. What happend is truely unfortunate and Randy and his family are in my thoughts and prayers.
christina hostetler
October 14, 2008
Karine and Mike -
I'm speaking for all parents when I say that there is no greater pain than what you are going through now. We are so terribly sad to hear of the loss of your son Randy. He was beautiful inside and out. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and all of your family.
Love,
Christina and Dave Hostetler
E W
October 14, 2008
he will be forever loved and missed.
ONTD
October 14, 2008
We are OHNOTHEYDIDNT at livejournal.com .. an online gossip community want to say that we are SO sorry for your loss. He was someone members of our community looked up to, not for just being good looking, but because he was a nice, sweet guy. Guys like those are hard to find! He may be gone but he will never be forgotten. God bless and we are very sorry for your loss. The world has lost a good man.
T G
October 14, 2008
I will always remember your beautiful face Randy... Rest in Peace. I love you.
Teresa & Motorcycle Dan
October 14, 2008
Karine & Mike,
Words can't express how sorry we are for your loss. Your family is in our thoughts and prayers.
James Mckeon
October 14, 2008
randy-
i'll treasure the memories and music we made in the molotov skunx for the rest of my life. you were a good friend and musician. your smile and laugh made everyone smile and laugh you will missed by many.
-James
Samantha Urbani
October 14, 2008
This is really difficult. I'm not sure what to write. I love Randy very deeply, in the most honest way. I am going to feel that way forever. I want all of his family to know how greatly he has effected me and that I am infinitely appreciative that I was able to know him for the last three and a half years. I've spoken so highly of him to a countless number of people I've met over time while describing friends from Connecticut or people who mean a lot to me. I'll continue to think of him and talk about him for the rest of my life. On Sunday night I spent what felt like hours with him in a dream. I know how important it is to never let go of the way he made me feel- I am going to keep a part of him alive in me forever. I love you Randy Baby!
Katie Fogg
October 14, 2008
Randy was always the one making everyone smile and laugh. Never in a bad mood, he knew how to make someone's day feel better, even if he had to act a little wierd to do it :) Speaking for all his friends, i know he will be missed but will always stay in our hearts.
Tricia Volpe
October 14, 2008
Ron, Tammy, Mike, & Kids
My deepest sympathy to you and your Family at this time. You have endured alot over the past couple of weeks. Stay strong your family is here. Hold your head up high things can only get better. if there is anything that i can do for you guys please just ask. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this time.
love,
Tricia Volpe and Girls (Mystic, CT)
Evelyn Fox
October 14, 2008
Dear Ron,
So sorry for your loss. Please know
we are thinking of you at this time
of sorrow.
We love you.
Ron and Evelyn
DAWN & JOE RAUCHER
October 14, 2008
KARINE & FAMILY,
OUR THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU.PLEASE DONT HESITATE TO ASK IF YOU NEED ANYTHING!
October 14, 2008
Ron,
I can't fathom what you are going through. Please know my heart is breaking with yours. Your family here at Branford stands with you.
Deb
Melanie Bumpus
October 14, 2008
Karine and Mike,
I am so sorry for your loss. I will be keeping your whole family in my thoughts and prayers. Randy will be sorely missed by everyone who knew him.
Margaret Barlow
October 14, 2008
My heart goes out to your family. I will always remember Randy's enchanting smile. He always managed to make me laugh. He truly had a wonderful soul.
Madeline Dowling
October 14, 2008
To all those who will love Randy forever and who will be loved back by him . . . forever
My prayer for you is that God gifts you with all you need at every moment
With all that is heart-felt, Maddy Dowling
Joe, Nicole and Marie Grillo
October 14, 2008
Our heartfelt condolences are with you and your family at this time. We will keep you in our prayers.
Heather Reynolds
October 14, 2008
Karine and family- Please know that my thoughts are with you at this difficult time.
Love- Heather (Belisle) Reynolds
October 14, 2008
Karine and Mike,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. May God bless you and your family.
Dean Barber & Donna Dexter
J Zimmerman
October 14, 2008
My thoughts are with you.
Chip, Dawn, Hayley, Sydney and Lyndsey Segar
October 14, 2008
Mike, Karine, Brent, and Madison-
Words cannot begin to express how sorry we are for your loss. Please know that our hearts, thoughts and prayers are with you constantly during this time. Randy was such a wonderful son, brother and friend to all who knew and loved him.
Sue Denker
October 14, 2008
Karine, Mike, Brent & Madison,
We were so saddened by the news about Randy. Please know you are all in our thoughts and prayers. We all will miss Randy brother. Our hearts go out to you.
Sending you all the Denker love!
Gabby Drenga
October 14, 2008
You will be missed!! :(
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