Richer, Randall Lynn (1966-1970)

Mennonite Weekly Review obituary: 1970 Oct 29 p. 11

Birth date: 1966 April 4

RANDALL LYNN RICHER

Randall Lynn Richer was born at Upland, Calif. on April 4, 1966, to Roger Lee and Florence Byler Richer; on Aug. 31, 1970 at the early age at four years, four months and 27 days, he entered his Heavenly Home.

Bereaved by his sudden departure are his parents; one brother, Jerrell; grandparents, Mrs. Sadie Byler and Rev. and Mrs. Dan Sommers, and a great-grandmother, Mrs. Mary Richer, many aunts, uncles, cousins, his church family, neighbors and friends.

Whether at home or church Randall loved to sing, pray, listen to Bible stories and help others. In Sunday school he was gentle and kind to his classmates. He was genuinely concerned about others, whether a new little guest or an absent classmate or teacher.

During his short years he had several illnesses, which, coupled with his sensitive spirit, made him unusually sympathetic. He often prayed for those who were ill. He was a happy helper at home, at Sunday school or wherever he was. He cherished his little Bible and liked to find in it the pictures marking his favorite stories and verses. He often found where Jesus said. "Let the little children come to me" and now he has answered Jesus' loving invitation to come to Him. Only two weeks ago in Nursery Class he joined in singing "Jesus has a Home In Heaven for all His Children Dear—and now he is enjoying that home in Heaven.

How grateful we are that God sent Randall to sojourn with us these four beautiful years enroute to Eternity! His remarkably sweet countenance was touched with Heavens beauty and his lovely thoughtful eyes seemed often to be looking beyond earthly horizons. Even through our tears we are comforted with memories of his precious earthly life and with the prospect of again receiving his warm welcoming smile when we, too, reach home.

Although Randall’s passing has broken earthly ties with family and friends for a few short years it has strengthened the spiritual ties which bind us together in the eternal fellowship of God’s Beloved Family. — By Katharine Royer, Randall’s Sunday school teacher.