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Randall Fields Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Randall Fields
Chris Bryant
November 4, 2020
I worked for Randall "Sweetwater" Fields parking cars at Kings Dominion in the late 70s. I thought he was the coolest guy I had ever met in my then-young life. That was over 40 years ago, and just thinking about him puts a smile on my face to this day.
"You're absolutely right again"
Marc Jolley
January 21, 2007
Randall (Sweetwater) It was a pleasure marching as Trojans together. Thanks for the memories
Rebecca F.
January 9, 2007
For everyone who sent their condolences in our loss of Randall...pls see the Jan 9, 2007 version of the Richmond-Times Dispatch...obituaries page.
God bless you all,
Rebecca Fields and family
Andrea McMillen
January 5, 2007
I was very shocked and sad to hear about the death of Mr. Fields. He was an amazing person, who I will never forget. He was so very passionate about music. He had a wonderful way of being upfront and funny and making you want to do better. I am saddened to know that he is no longer with us, and no furture students will gain an understanding of music through his teachings. Though I am sure that he will live through us, as few students will forget about the burger king gene.
Nicole Otero
January 4, 2007
I had the pleasure of speaking on behalf of Red Lobster at the funeral. I loved the sound of laughter and crying. I met Randall when I was 17yrs old working part-time. At that time, my mother, grandmother, and grandfather worked there too. As I came back to work at Red Lobster 3 yrs. ago, Randall and I picked up where we left off. Of course, I saw him from time to time over the years, but working beside someone brings more depth. Now that I'm older, I allowed my mind to listen to things he said. He always asked how my mother was and my daughter. He would push me to continue to succeed in my other career goals or personal achievements. Randall never wanted to be fussed over, but appreciated it nevertheless. I hated to watch him suffer. Randall was such a work-aholic. He would fuss at us to keep us going. Sometimes, people don't understand that kind of approach. To know Randall, you knew he had a heart of gold and could be pushed to tears easily if he ever offended you unknowingly. I only hope he is looking down to see all the love he had around him and how much we look forward to seeing him agian. See you later in Heaven, Randall. BREAK IT DOWN!
Melissa Conner
January 4, 2007
As one of the many VHS band students who Mr. Fields influenced, I'm greatly sadened to hear of his passing. His love for music and mankind was unmatched. I know the bands in Heaven are in tune, in time, and there are no wrong notes...
Sandra
January 3, 2007
Randall, Fuiste un gran amigo para mi, siempre preocupado por lo que me pasaba, tus consejos, palabras de aliento y esa sonrisa de agradecimiento que nos brindabas a todos al final de un largo dia de trabajo, nunca las olvidare, tampoco aquella fresa con crema el dia de mi cumpleaños, aquella charla ese dia de lluvia camino al banco, ni lo que me dijiste ese ultimo sabado que llegue a trabajar con mi cabello mojado, todo eso y mas seran los mas lindos momentos con los que siempre te recordare.
Llore cundo supe que habias muerto, un dolor profundo se apodero de mi alma y mi corazon, esa tarde regrese al lugar de tu accidente, todavia con lagrimas en mi rostro, ni podia aceptar que te habias ido. Con una oracion le pedi al Señor que nos cuidara a los dos.
Gracias por regresar a despedirte de mi y a darme el ultimo de tus consejos, en ese momento no lo entendi, pero ahora con todo lo que ha pasado me doy cuenta de todo lo sabio y ANGEL que eras mi querido amigo.
Te recordare por siempre.
January 3, 2007
I am so sorry for your lost
John Jr & Christine Ferguson
January 3, 2007
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
erin (welch) weisgram
January 2, 2007
i was just telling my husband about mr. fields the other day. it's amazing how some people come into our lives for one reason or another and never really leave. the lessons that he taught us in music and life will be remembered and passed along for many years to come. God bless.
Susan Welch Atkinson
January 2, 2007
My girls (Dia and Erin) and I loved Mr. Fields dearly. He touched so many Varina students, teaching them to strive for excellence and to give everything they had. He showed them how. Randall, you will be missed. Many blessings to the family.
Brad & Lisa Post
January 2, 2007
Lisa and my deepest sympathies go out to the family and friends. Lisa and myself worked with Randall at the same time and had the pleasure of meeting at Red Lobster. Randall was always a strength for herself and me. His words and wisdom will always live on within each of us and will never be forgotten. I know for us that he was a deeply caring and passionate man who will never be replaced in our hearts and souls. Our best wishes to all that knew him and are able to read this words. Always remembered never forgotten.
Brad Post
January 2, 2007
I would like to extend my deepest sympathy to the family and friends of Randall. I had the privalege to work with Randall for many years with Red Lobster as his manager. Randall was never the easiest person to manage as you all who knew him I'm sure knew, but Randall always knew his job and did it to the best of his abilities and showed the utmost respect to me and my collegues. Randall was one the most hardworking men I have ever worked with and even on that last day he was coming to work next to me. Randall will never be forgotten at Red Lobster West Broad as he has touched many guests with his hardwork but touched even more of its crew with his relentless drive to 'Feed America' and get the job done. Randall touched so many with his hardwork and never ending evergy, even while battling diabetes he still would not miss a day of work and while there work harder than most everyone around him. There was many a day in which we would have to pull Randall from his position and force him to eat and rest for his body was not keeping up with his relentless drive. Randall although always stubborn, always meant well in all he did and truly cared about everyone. Few people got the pleasure of truly knowing Randall but if he did take the time to talk to you, you were truly blessed by his knowlege and words even if at that time were not able to see or understand them. Randall will forever be remembered at Red Lobster on West Broad as he touched so many throughout the 24 years he was there. Many a manager he helped train, including myself, will never forget his stubborn ways of getting his point across so you would survive the busy times and never give up. I thank Randall for all he did for me and my career and helping me further myself professionally and personally. He will never be able to be replaced at Red Lobster and always remembered as the glue that kept us all together during those tough days and nights. I hope to see everyone soon as Randall would want us to continue on 'Feeding America' and pleasing as many people as we can every day and night. Thank you.
Rebecca F
December 30, 2006
Being that this guestbook is for EVERYONE connected to Randall in any way...to share their love and memories of Randall, as well as to share with each other..I wanted to personally thank my friend and "Sis" Marianne from Illinois who signed this guestbook.
As SOON as she heard of Randall's passing, she immediately opened up her heart to the family, and went to work to crochet a "prayer shawl" for Randall's mother, to comfort her in her time of sorrow. She will probably FUSS at me for even making mention of this but it means JUST THAT MUCH to me that she would open her heart and take the time to do this, that I felt I needed to mention it here. Again...this is the example of what Randall meant to everyone, near and far.
God bless you Marianne, and thank you.
"Sis" Rebecca
Chuck and Marianne Svihlik
December 30, 2006
We didn't know Randall as we are friends of Russ and Rebecca's from Illinois. But we feel your pain and sadness. The family will remain in our prayers.
Rebecca F.
December 30, 2006
Again, I wanted to sign this guestbook at the request of Randall's Mother, Mary, and on behalf of the family.
We want to thank you HERE, but also once things settle in and the "raw-ness" of this all, eases a bit, there will also be THANK YOUs in the local newspapers as well.
For all the family and friends who paid their repects to Randall yesterday, THANK YOU..and God Bless you ALL.
We wanted to especially say thank you to the Pastors...the choir...everyone who spoke in Randall's memory.
To the TWO people that the family didn't get to say THANK YOU to, personally...(for privacies sake no names mentioned)...the gentleman who fondly remembered Randall in his musical career...you made us laugh..then we cried right along with you.
TRUST me when I say that Randall takes you right along with him in his heart.
And to his female friend and coworker who spoke representing Red Lobster...how eloquent you were, yet so REAL when you spoke of Sweetwater and what he stood for...his sterness...yet his friendship, his love of HIS friends and coworkers.
You represented Red Lobster with PERFECTION and we can't thank you all enough for being there for Randall during a time where we weren't able to.
EACH OF YOU, in your own special way...left a huge imprint in our hearts and a place in Randall's heart that he takes with him.
Last but CERTAINLY not least, to Randall's manager, again names not mentioned for privacies sake, with all thats happened I don't even know if we got a chance to say thank you from the bottom of our hearts for what you did for us the day we visited Red Lobster, as well as EVERYTHING you've done for Randall.
You are a SPECIAL individual and you will NEVER be forgotten.
~Rebecca and The Family
Linda Jones-Wood
December 29, 2006
I knew Randall as "Sweetwater" and too remember the VCU Marching Band days. My prayers for strength and peace are with the family and all who knew him. May his spirit be free and remain with all he leaves behind. Remember to be absent in the body is to be present with God.
VERNELL COSBY
December 29, 2006
I will never forget our childhood memories growing up together. I always looked forward to seeing you at Red Lobster,you will be missed but never forgotten. I Love You Cousin.(your cousin Vernell)
Maxine Jones Cary
December 28, 2006
I extend my deepest sympathy to the family of Randall Fields, in the loss of your son, brother, uncle and friend.I will always cherish the memories of the Fields Brothers and the Jones Brothers plus me singing for the Lord during our childhood years.
Gina Antonellini
December 28, 2006
I was shocked and very saddened to learn of the passing of Mr. Fields. All of us Varina band alumni will remember his famous sayings when we would get out of line..."This ain't Burger King, you can't have it your way". Thank you, Mr. Fields. We will miss you and never forget you.
Rebecca F.
December 28, 2006
The family would like to thank EVERYONE for all their love and support of Randall in this guestbook, thus far.
We are all overwhelmed by the outpouring of affection that everyone felt for Randall...for those who were past students of Randalls or connected to him in ANY way by his love of music....
but most of all for the NEVERENDING love and support that he had at Red Lobster over the many years and even now...that he was employed there. The LOVE that we saw in each of you...when we visited Red Lobster a couple days ago...filled our hearts to ALL extents. The memorial on the edge of Broad Street, as well...was so very beautiful and SO very sincere..and seeing that..will always remain in our minds and in our hearts.
YOU ALL, at Red Lobster...were very much his "family" and for all the support you gave him through the years...we can't extend our gratitude enough. We apologize for the last minute notices but given the circumstances...we didn't have alot of time to work with and we hope and pray everyone was notified in enough time for them to pay their wishes as they felt they needed to.
With VERY sincere gratitude,
on behalf of Randall's parents and brothers..relatives and friends,
~Rebecca Fields
Rebecca F.
December 28, 2006
The family would like to thank EVERYONE for all their love and support of Randall in this guestbook, thus far.
We are all overwhelmed by the outpouring of affection that everyone felt for Randall...for those who were past students of Randalls or connected to him in ANY way by his love of music....
but most of all for the NEVERENDING love and support that he had at Red Lobster over the many years and even now...that he was employed there. The LOVE that we saw in each of you...when we visited Red Lobster a couple days ago...filled our hearts to ALL extents. The memorial on the edge of Broad Street, as well...was so very beautiful and SO very sincere..and seeing that..will always remain in our minds and in our hearts.
YOU ALL, at Red Lobster...were very much his "family" and for all the support you gave him through the years...we can't extend our gratitude enough. We apologize for the last minute notices but given the circumstances...we didn't have alot of time to work with and we hope and pray everyone was notified in enough time for them to pay their wishes as they felt they needed to.
With VERY sincere gratitude,
on behalf of Randall's parents and brothers..relatives and friends,
~Rebecca Fields
Timothy Langford
December 28, 2006
I am deeply saddened to hear of the tragic loss of Mr. Randall Fields. We attended college together and also enjoyed working hard and performing in the VCU Marching Band. My heart is encouraged, as I read the thoughts of the young people he inspired. To the family and friends of this wonderful man, we are blessed to have shared a segment of his radiant light which we call life.
bettie(fede) smith(Freeman)
December 28, 2006
Randall,as we use to call mouse, the community name, he will be greatly missed,but God knows best. To the family you have my deepest sympathy.
Crystal Starks-Williams
December 28, 2006
Mr.Fields will be missed. He was my Band Instuctor in 1989 and I also played the Clarinet. He was a great person.
From the Staff of Henry W. Dabney Funeral Home
December 28, 2006
Offering our deepest condolences during this difficult time.
Lona Ferguson Galloway
December 27, 2006
We are so sorry to hear about your loss. Be not dismay what ever be tide God will take care of you.
Morris Ferguson
December 27, 2006
My sympathy and prayers go out to the family!"Nitty," as he was known to us, was a very talented and accomplished musician and band leader! We attended elementary and high school together as well as growing up in the same community together. He was a good friend and kind person! Hold on to God's unchanging hand! He knows what's best!
Michelle Pace-Trent
December 27, 2006
Randall we will truly miss seeing you at Red Lobster. My mom and I was weekly customers and I always made it my point to speak to Randall. Whenever we had a big party my family use to say call Randall and see if he can get us in any faster and yes he did.
I know that you are in a better place with God so rest on my dear friend.
Kristin Stowers (Roberts)
December 27, 2006
Mr Fields always came to help out with our band when I played Clarinet at John Rolfe Middle School with Ms. Stevenson years ago. He never missed our concerts! I have many fond memories of him that I will never forget. My prayers are with his friends and family during this difficult time.
Patricia Arkesteyn
December 27, 2006
To the family of Randall. Music students at many schools,especially Varina High, never had a better teacher or friend. He loved his students as if they were his own children. What a sincere, loving person. I know he is in a better place but all here will surely miss him. John and I were so very fortunate to have known him and be his friends. Pat and John Arkesteyn
Brenda Lowe (Williams-maiden name)
December 26, 2006
Randall was known by the parking lot attendants and front gate personnel at Kings Dominion as "Sweet Water". He was respected by all and loved dearly by quite a few. All he talked about was becoming a high school band teacher and his face would light up. I feel very blessed to have had God's Sweet Water in my life.
Karim Shabazz (Former Red Lobster Employee)
December 25, 2006
I was saddened to hear about Randall's passing. It was so sudden and tragic, be he is in a better place. We loved him, but God loved him the most. To the Family, I pray your strength in God, and that he may guide you with comfort as you deal with you shocked and sudden lost.Be Encouraged and Be Blessed!!
Jessica Borash
December 24, 2006
though he was never officially my teacher, mr. fields was a mentor like none other. he was... well, he's more than i can describe with words. i will always remember him with a fond heart. i'm blessed to be considered a "daughter."
Angela Hatch HSHS C/O `92
December 24, 2006
It was with great sadness and disbelief when I was informed of Mr. Fields passing. Mr. Fields was a good and caring man, and a man who loved his marching band students. He was my band teacher about 17 yrs ago at Highland Springs High School, where he would ask us if "we had escaped from our household" when we would get in trouble for playing the wrong note. (lol). I'll always remember those fun times with Mr. Fields, for he truely wanted us to get the best, and be the best at what we were doing. He will be missed, and my prayers go out to all of his family and close friends alike, that the Lord comfort and keep you wrapped in his loving arms in this your time of loss.
Marcie Lesher
December 24, 2006
It is with great sadeness that I heard of Mr. Field's death. Mr. Fields was my band teacher 16 years ago at Highland Springs High School. He was a wonderful mentor and teacher. He would always push us to do our best. I will always remeber him for his baton. We will miss you. I will come by to pay my respects. You will be truely missed.
Marcie Lesher (Hockaday)
Luanne Norvell
December 24, 2006
To all the family and friends of "Mr. Fields", he touched many young lives (and chaperones) in marching band at Varina HS. We will always remember the long bus trips (PG movies only, per Mr. Fields)and how he loved those students. He will be deeply missed. Our prayers and thoughts are with you at such a difficult time. Danny & Luanne Norvell; Jill Norvell Trudeau & Susan Norvell Brooks
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