Randall Edward Thomas, lovingly known as Randy, passed away on July 7, 2026. Born on May 4, 1952, in Clarksburg, West Virginia, he was the son of DuWayne Earl and Frances “Betty” Elizabeth Thomas, both of whom preceded him in death. Randy later made his home in Milan, New Mexico, where he built a life defined by service, hard work, humor, and his family.Randy graduated from Alhambra High School before enlisting in the United States Air Force, serving proudly for four years as a Concrete Finishing Specialist. His military service shaped the discipline and work ethic that carried him through the rest of his life. After leaving the Air Force, Randy began a long and dedicated career as a semi‑truck driver, spending more than 30 years on the road. He drove both local routes and later traveled nationwide as an over‑the‑road driver, earning a reputation for reliability, grit, and professionalism.Beyond trucking, Randy worked construction as a heavy equipment operator on state projects throughout New Mexico and Arizona. A skilled tradesman, he was capable in carpentry, welding, and cement finishing. The final seven years of his career were spent at the El Segundo coal mine in New Mexico, where he worked until his retirement in 2016.Randy married Erlynn LaRae Arp of Grants, and together they shared 45 years of marriage filled with laughter, partnership, and family. He was the proud father of two sons, Shannon Randall (wife Amanda) and Brandon Earl (wife Michael), and the grandfather of seven grandchildren: Andy, Owen, Chryssy, Jaydin, Rylee, Jonah, and Abby. Randy raised his boys to be capable, confident men, and he delighted in watching his grandchildren grow, each one carrying a piece of his spirit forward.Randy’s life was rich with hobbies and passions that reflected his adventurous nature. He loved fishing, boating, hunting with family, snowmobiling, leatherworking, and spending time in the mountains. He was a lifelong motorcycle enthusiast who cherished riding his Harley with his brothers. In his younger years, he even raced his 1966 Pontiac Tempest, adding yet another colorful chapter to his story.Those who knew Randy will remember his unmistakable personality: a practical joker with a dry sense of humor, a prankster, a flirt, sweet and ornery in equal measure. His siblings once tied him to a grapefruit tree as a child — a story that still brings laughter decades later. He filled his family’s lives with unforgettable moments, including a 2012 hunting trip with his son and grandson, where Frosted Flakes and Diet Mountain Dew became an improvised breakfast that tasted surprisingly like Fruity Pebbles.Randy is survived by his siblings Ruth, Retha, Robin, and Russ of Arizona, and Roger of Florida. He is preceded in death by his brothers Rick, Ron, and Raymond, all of Arizona.A Celebration of Life service will be held at Immanuel Baptist Church, 518 Valencia Ave in Milan, New Mexico, with military honors at 1:30 PM MST (1330L). Food and fellowship will follow. Burial arrangements are not planned at this time. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the New Mexico Wildlife Federation, honoring Randy’s lifelong love of the outdoors.Randy lived boldly, laughed often, worked hard, and loved deeply. His stories, humor, and spirit will continue to echo in the lives of those who knew him.