Randall Dean "Randy" Williamson

Randy Williamson, 72 of Topeka, Kansas left this world peacefully surrounded by his family.

Randall Dean Williamson was born January 21, 1951 to Duane and Wanda (Law) Williamson in Emporia, KS. He attended Emporia public schools and graduated from Emporia High in 1969. During his school years he was active in 4H and Rodeos and helped out on his family's poultry farm.

After high school, he spent several years in Texas working on cattle ranches and was active in the rodeo. He especially enjoyed Team Roping and Bronc riding. He loved horses and taught his daughters how to ride. After returning to Kansas he drove a gas tanker as well as a semi for Dolly Madison where he retired after 22+ years. At the same time he volunteered for the Americus Fire Dept. After retirement he served as an officer for the Americus Police Dept as well as working for the local natural gas company. Randy always worked hard to provide for his family and took pride in what he did.

Randy loved spending time with his kids and grandkids. He loved his dogs, his garden, and he loved to hunt and fish. His love for hunting took him on quite a few trips with friends. Oh the stories they did tell! Randy had a passion for the outdoors. You could always find him outside staying busy or just relaxing by the fire pit-beer in hand. If you were to ask him what he was up to he'd say "Oh just piddling around" During his final years he would spend hours sitting on the front porch watching the squirrels and the birds while keeping a watchful eye on the neighborhood.

He was a people person and never knew a stranger. A trip to Bluestem or the Gun Den could turn into half a day. Randy's sense of humor and sarcasm was unmatched. It was nothing for him to break out in song in the middle of Walmart. (Jingle Bells was always a favorite) If he was the one to answer the phone you were sure to be greeted with "Who are ya and what do you want?"

Randy and Sue spent their first years in Emporia, Tonganoxie and Olpe but the majority of their life together was spent in Americus. They relocated to Texas in 2016 to care for Randy's dad. During his time there, you could often find him on the golf course. He enjoyed the warm weather, making new friends, going to dances, and taking trips to the beach as well as all of the fresh seafood & barbecue. As much as Randy thoroughly enjoyed being in the Valley, they decided to move back to Kansas permanently in 2020 during the covid pandemic to be closer to family.

Randy married Susan (King) Burroughs on May 26, 1978 in Emporia, Kansas. He is survived by his wife Sue, daughters Amy Burroughs of Kansas City, KS, Jennifer Highley (Jon Hill) of Americus, KS, Jamie Williamson of Topeka, KS, and Leighanne Ahrens (John) of Topeka, KS.

He leaves behind 9 grandchildren: Teresa Thompson, Kamryn Tillmon, Gary Root, Logan Highley, Brandon Highley, Tanner Highley, Trevor Highley, Gavin Ahrens, Macy Ahrens and nine great-grandchildren. He is also survived by two brothers Roger Williamson of Eureka, KS and Rod Williamson of Rifle, Colorado, two aunts and numerous cousins. Randy was preceded in death by his parents Duane and Wanda, a step son Gary L. Burroughs Jr.

The impact that Randy had on those around him will never be forgotten. Randy was always willing to lend a helping hand or a give a few words of advice. (Wether you were ready to hear them or not) Once he considered you a friend, you became part of the family. He was the kind of man you knew you could always count on. He loved his family fiercely and the endless memories that were made will be cherished forever. As devastated as we are to not have him here on earth with us, we take great comfort in knowing that he is now free from health issues and is spending his days with all of the loved ones we have lost. We will carry him in our hearts until we are reunited again.

A Celebration of Life will be held from 12:00 until 6:00 PM Saturday Aug 26, 2023, at the Lakewood Shelter House, 2301 SE Lakewood Blvd Topeka KS. Lunch will be provided, casual dress, and please come and share your stories!