Randall E. Leyendecker

August 31, 1954 - July 27, 2020
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Fred Dickey Funeral & Cremation Services
Sarah Davis
Maria Slemaker
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John and Blanca Stevenson
Bill Hovel SJA Class of 72
Chano & Leti Guardiola
Javier Morales Light a candle

Obituary

RANDALL E. LEYENDECKER

1954 – 2020

Randall E. Leyendecker, 66 was called to heaven July 27, 2020 in Laredo, Texas. Randy was the younger of two sons born to Edward and Virginia Leyendecker, Jr. He attended Blessed Sacrament School and continued his education at St. Joseph’s Academy. After graduating from high school, his studies took him to North Texas State University in Denton, followed by Texas A&M University in College Station.

Throughout his teen and adolescent years, Randy, his brother, and a mix of cousins worked alongside the employees of City Lumber Company on Washington St. in downtown Laredo. While learning the basics of the lumber business, Randy was usually at the center of all the fun and mischief that he and his younger relatives would cook up. During his junior high and high school years, Randy made many long-lasting friendships, and took great pride knowing those friends not only kept in touch, but continue to laugh, to tease, and to care for one another as much as they did ­fifty years ago.

In the late ‘70s Randy moved to Corpus Christi, Texas where he worked for CC Brick & Lumber. It didn’t take long before returning to Laredo where he joined Distinctive Designers followed by Big G’s Lumber. The early ‘80s marked the beginning of Leyendecker Lumber, a partnership between Randy, and friend, the late Eduardo E. Barreda, CPA. His cousin, Terry Powell ran the back office helping to insure its success for 35 years. For a short time, Randy became a resident of Monterrey, Mexico while heading up an extension of Leyendecker Lumber called Leyendecker de Mexico.

Back in Laredo, Randy ­finally found and married his soul mate, Mildred “Jeannie” Lee. She was a dedicated wife and assisted him with all his endeavors, and Randy made no secret that he loved each of her children as if they were his. During his struggle with cancer, she insisted on caring for Randy at home and on her own. It was difficult and backbreaking, but Jeannie managed to do an amazing job to the very end.

Randy’s Christian spirit and love of God led him to perform many charitable acts. He wasn’t one to sing his own praises, and most of his unsel­fish efforts went unseen by most, but the short list includes the founding of the Laredo Stepping Stone, a center used to facilitate missionaries going to and from Mexico; his work with Bethany House and with the South Texas Food Bank; numerous and continuous contributions to preachers for their church funds and events; personally delivering daily meals to homeless individuals; preaching and distributing hot food at Jarvis Plaza to anyone hungry, homeless or living in the old folk’s home; preparing and delivering fresh food to the victims of hurricane Harvey in Corpus Christi; Sunday afternoons spreading God’s word to inmates in a small prison outside of Cotulla, Texas, and many other works and deeds, some we aren’t even aware of.

Left to cherish his memory are his wife, Mildred J. Leyendecker; his stepchildren, Francisco (Claudia) Lopez , Reno (Jessica) Lopez, David (Elizabeth) Lopez, and Jessie (Lisa) Lopez; grandchildren, Reno, Lexi, Lizzy, Janell, Carly, Abram and Liam; far too many aunts, uncles, cousins, nephews and nieces to name, as well as his only sibling, Edward Leyendecker, III. Randy was preceded in death by his father, Edward R. Leyendecker, Jr., and mother, Virginia Teeter Leyendecker.

A memorial service will be held at Fred Dickey Funeral & Cremation Services on Thursday, August 20, 2020 from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, we ask that you make a tax deductible donation to:

Randy Leyendecker Memorial Foundation

Care of Laredo Area Community Foundation

P.O. Box 450223

Laredo, TX 78045

Your contribution will be used to help support the Laredo Stepping Stone.

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Service Schedule

Visitation Information

Date: Thursday, August 20, 2020

Time: 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm

Fred Dickey Funeral & Cremation Services

Address:

1320 Trey Dr.
Laredo, Texas 78041

A Memorial Service will begin at 6:30 pm


 

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Timeline for Randall E. Leyendecker

Born: August 31, 1954
Died: July 27, 2020

Condolences for Randall E. Leyendecker

Fred Dickey Funeral & Cremation Services

Our sincere condolences.

The staff of Fred Dickey Funeral & Cremation Services.

 

Cathy McPherskn posted on 8/22/20

Jeannie, I hope you remember Mark and me. We were privileged to stay at the Stepping Stone for a few months with our three children. Randy was a wonderful friend, benefactor and Christian brother. Our hearts are sad that he is no longer by your side, but we know he is with Jesus. May the Holy Spirit comfort you. Blessings, Mark and Cathy McPherson

 

Luis R. Casso posted on 8/21/20

I remember Randy all the way back from when I was at Blessed Sacrament Elementary School and his Mom was my Kindergarten teacher. She would say - you see that boy - that's my son. Then later at St. Joseph's Academy. I got to know him even better through my friendship with his first cousin Billy Stewart. Randy would spend a lot of time with Billy, in Laredo and also in San Antonio while Billy was in Dental School and so would I. Lots of great memories. I remember Randy taking the time to give me private skiing lessons when we went skiing one time in Lake Tahoe with a group of friends. And of course he was business partners with another close friend of mine Ed Barreda. I've always known Randy to be a devoutly religious and caring person -always looking to lend a helping hand to friends and especially to those less fortunate. Always thinking of others before himself. And always in the service to God. He touched so many lives and he will be missed greatly. My sincerest condolences to his wife Jeanie, his stepsons and grandson, to Wayo, and the entire Leyendecker and Stewart Family.

 

Sarah Davis posted on 8/20/20

My husband and I served alongside Randy in ministry for many years and have so many wonderful memories with him and Jeannie. He would constantly tell us that he just wanted to be found busy working for God when Jesus returned. Randy had such a beautiful servant's heart for the Lord. With love, Sarah & Brent Davis

 

Maria Slemaker posted on 8/20/20

Randy will always be in our heart. William & Maria Slemaker

 

Gloria Moreno - South Texas Food Bank posted on 8/20/20

My sincere condolences to Mrs. Jeannie, family and friends. I am honored and blessed to have met Mr. Leyendecker through my workplace. His wonderful and gentle soul will remain in our hearts.

 

Jon j.guerrero posted on 8/20/20

Rest in peace my friend right about now all the angels in heaven are rejoicing for your arrival. Geanie God bless your family Always. our prayers go out to you. ????? Jon and Cindy Guerrero Hector and herlinda Alvarado

 

Krystal Martinez posted on 8/20/20

My deepest condolences to Randy’s beautiful wife Jeanie, and the whole family. Randy had a heart of gold. One of the most inspirational man that i had the pleasure of meeting. The times that i got to be around Randy were few, but i will forever treasure those memories. Praying for peace and comfort. May we rejoice, for we know that Randy is in the presence of the Lord.

 

Memo Gonzalez posted on 8/20/20

My deepest condolences to all his family. I was a childhood friend and neighbor of Randy. We went to school (SJA '72) together, and we lived just down the street from one another. I lost touch with Randy over the years, though we crossed paths here-and-there. And, when we did, he was smiling, friendly, and kind, just like I remembered him. Indeed, Randy, this is how I will remember you. I was blessed to have known you. May you find peace the Lord's loving arms, and may the Lord provide solace to the family you leave behind.

 

Nash Vallone posted on 8/20/20

Our prayers are with the Randy Leyendecker family. We pray peace for all of you and please receive our condolences. (Nash & Rosa Vallone) The Full Gospel Fellowship will miss Randy very much. He was a faithful member and servant of the Lord for many years.

 

Joseph Cascio posted on 8/20/20

Randy, I only knew you a short while, But we had that Holy Spirit connection. I will miss you but at the same time I am so happy for you. My condolences to your family. You are an amazing soul.

 

Rick and Kim Hall posted on 8/20/20

Dear Jeanie and family, We are thinking of you so much today, even though we can't be with you. We pray you feel the loving arms of the Savior wrapped around you and the sweet peace of knowing just where Randy is and what he is doing right this moment, worshipping at the feet of his beloved Savior, healthy and whole. We are so appreciative for Stepping Stone and for everything Randy has done for us over the years, and for all the missionaries and teams and people he touched with his huge heart. Great is his reward! Love you all and if we can do anything, please let us know. Stepping Stone will go on with his great heart, blessing so many as the years go by.

 

John and Blanca Stevenson posted on 8/20/20

Our most sincere condolences to the family. Randy Leyendecker was a very sweet and kind person. He was always willing to help anyone who asked for his help. My husband was fortunate to have worked for him and we were just as fortunate to have known him. RIP Mr. Leyendecker.

 

John and Blanca Stevenson posted on 8/20/20

In memory of a very kind, wonderful, and giving man, Mr. Randy Leyendecker. May he Rest In Paradise.

 

Gustavo J Garcia posted on 8/16/20

My deepest condolences to Jeannie and family as well as Wayo and extended Leyendecker family that loved him dearly. I knew of Randy when we were going to St Joseph academy: although until we crossed paths through our businesses is when i got to know him on a personal level. My business was a general contractor and he sold me all the building supplies for my projects. I enjoyed and admired his business ethics, his knowledge of the business; his character; his humorous side, his honesty and integrity. So after our business and friendship went to a spiritual level for the things of God. And that is when Randy,founder of the Stepping Stone ministries, came into fruition. God was using Randy in a mighty way. Stepping Stone started to grow exponentially and developing other areas of ministry. Randy as well as the help from Rick and Kim Hall; directors of the Stepping Stone started the a food distribution center. Although, he wanted to feed the needy; Randy wanted to make sure before each person left, to pray for their needs and especially to receive Jesus Christ as their savior. Randy also developed a profound compassion to help the homeless through out the city. Randy and Jeannie would go every night to distribute food and supplies to the homeless. But his favorite part was to pray for them. From the Homeless ministry, Randy founded the Church in the Park in Jarvis Plaza. He knew the homeless needed a place to go instead of a regular church setting and God moved in a mighty way again. Randy didn't stop there; he not only supplied them spiritual food but with physical food. Randy also started a church in Encinal Tx. as well as christian radio station. I was so inspired how he tirelessly and passionately loved to help people in need; whether they were hurting emotionally,financially or physically. He had the biggest heart and i was so humbled by it. But most of all I admired his love for his wife Jeannie and his family. He would enjoy talking about every detail and adventures together. If can describe Randy in one sentence; he was like David of the bible " A man after God's own Heart". Randy leaves a legacy that we should all try to emulate, even though he did not want any credit; just only Jesus. It was a privilege and a honor to have known Randy. Randy, thank you for giving onto the Lord; teaching me about forgiveness; commitment and devotion to seek God with all my heart. Thank you for being a good and faithful friend and brother in Christ to the end. I will see you again one day. Love you Tavo Garcia

 

Bridget Leyendecker posted on 8/10/20

With love and respect...my heart is full of the love you showed to me and my brother. You will be missed.

 

Frances E Gonzalez posted on 8/10/20

Our Sincere Condolences and Love to Ms. Jeannie and Family ??? Frances E Gonzalez and Family +Eulogio "Chacho" Gonzalez ❤?❤

 

Sonia Bernal posted on 8/6/20

Yo se que Randy ya esta en los brazos del Señor. Sigamos su ejemplo que es lo mas hermoso que el nos dejo. Que Dios le de la fortaleza a los que la necesiten. Porque el morir en Cristo es lo mejor que esperamos todos los que servimos a el. Mis mas sinceras condolencias.

 

Bill Hovel SJA Class of 72 posted on 8/6/20

In memory of Randall E. Leyendecker, Bill Hovel SJA Class of 72 lit a candle

 

Bill Hovel SJA Class of 72 posted on 8/6/20

My sincerest condolences to the entire Leyendecker family. Randy and I were friends almost since diapers. Even though my life journey took me away from Laredo, our friendship remained strong. I feel fortunate to have been able to visit with Randy a few weeks ago, remembering the good old days and saying our goodbyes. Heaven is a better place because Randy is there. I'll miss you my dear friend.

 

Rosa Huff posted on 8/6/20

My sincerist condolences to all of Randy’s Family. Wayo, I was sorry to here about your brother. How proud you all must be to have had a true servant to our most high as your brother. His smile and twinkle of light in his eyes says it all. Un abrazo grande!

 

Erika & Raul Torres posted on 8/6/20

Our deepest condolences to the Leyendecker family and extended family for your loss. Randy was a great man with a huge heart willing to help anyone And always with a smile. It was a great honor and privilege to have worked with him so many years, he was just like family to us. So many beautiful memories with him. Jeannie, we love you very much and may the Lord give you strength and peace in these tough moments. We are praying for you! RIP Randy next to our savior and all his glory; you will always be in our hearts. We love you

 

Mary Longoria posted on 8/4/20

Wayo, I am so sorry to hear of Randy's passing. Every time I saw him he was ready to greet me with a big smile on his face. I knew instinctively that he was a good man. I will be praying for you and Randy and his family. May the Lord help you in your time of bereavement. Mary Kathryn Longoria

 

Chano & Leti Guardiola posted on 8/4/20

RIP Randy.

 

Chano & Leti Guardiola posted on 8/4/20

Our deepest condolences to Jeanie and all the family. May God be with you and see you through this difficult time. Randy was an exceptional person in many ways and he will always live in our hearts. May he RIP.

 

Ricardo Castilleja posted on 8/4/20

My condolence to the family.

 

Paul Frey posted on 8/3/20

Much love to Jeannie and all the family. I am so grateful for Randy, his love of God and his love of his neighbor. He was an inspiration to me and many other people. His willingness to love all, pray with anyone, seek out the hurting, and tangibly show the love of God were a precious gift. Much love in Christ - Matthew 25:40

 

gerardo l pina posted on 8/2/20

Randy, thanks for helping me out all this years. you use to sell me rebars that were damage. I used to make trash can holders and sold them every weekend. your help really help my family and me during those hard times. Thanks for being my friend and your help. Plus I used to purchase for the City of Laredo and your company really made my job easier. God Bless you and your family. Gerardo L. Piña (Jerry) 2208 Blaine St. Laredo, Texas 78043

 

Jon J. Guerrero posted on 8/2/20

Our deepest condolences to miss Genie and the whole leyendecker family we have suffered a great loss and we'll miss Randy he knew the meaning of love peace and understanding because the Lord did not give him a Spirit of weakness but of love power and sound mind rest in peace my brother. Jon and Cindy Guerrero Hector and herlinda Alvarado

 

Javier Morales posted on 8/1/20

In memory of Randall E. Leyendecker, Javier Morales lit a candle

 

Javier Morales posted on 7/31/20

I met Randy in 1964 when we were fourth graders at St Joseph’s Academy. I remember him carrying his Bible in the school cafeteria; he was a Christian even then. We kept in touch throughout our lives, but these past few months, we spoke to each other almost daily. I feel especially blessed to have spent the last days of his life with him and our childhood friends. Randy never lost his faith and was ready to meet his He Heavenly Father. He was an incredible man of God that inspired us all to be bold about sharing our faith and our walk with God. Rest In Peace.

 

OSCAR MONTIEL posted on 7/31/20

Mis condolencias a toda la familia, un gran siervo de Dios,

 

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