Kenneth Randall Francisco, age 65, went to meet the Lord after a valiant battle with cancer surrounded by his family on March 27, 2022.
Born to Llendell and Nettie Francisco on October 11, 1956 in Pikeville, Kentucky, he was a loving husband, father, brother, uncle, grandfather, great-grandfather and friend. His passion and integrity to those he loved was unwavering. His hillbilly humor and stories will live on forever. Randy leaves behind Melinda, his wife of 42 years, daughters Linda Anne(42) and Jennifer Annette(39), his son-in-laws Joel Wayne(Harry)(43) and Steven Lawrence, deceased. He is survived by his three brothers, Michael Eugene(62), Richard Eric(54) and Mark Anthony(50) and one sister Vicky Lynn(63).
Randy was a loving Poppa to six grandchildren- Victoria Nicole(29), Kyleigh Marie(20), Steven Lawerence, Jr(17), Emma Faith(15), Ethan Kenneth(13), Lilly Anne(11) and one great granddaughter, Eleanor(Ellie) Grace(1).
Randy graduated from Lincoln Park High School in Lincoln Park Michigan in June 1976. He then enlisted in the United States Marine Corp and proudly served his country until 1979. He was fiercely patriotic and loved his country with all of his heart. While stationed at Fort Meade in 1978 he met a young 16 year old girl named Melinda Utz. He was completely smitten with her and told his mom that “she was cuter than a speckled pup under a red wagon!” They dated for 8 very brief months and were married on June 2, 1979. Together they would raise 2 girls- Linda Anne and Jennifer Annette.
After leaving the service, he became a police
officer first at the University of Maryland and then the
Howard County Police Department.
He served in various different capacities in his 30 year career. He was a patrol officer, served in the Crime Lab, lead the burglary unit and was the violent crimes sergeant. when he retired in 2008. During his 30 year law enforcement career, he received the Medal of Valor, numerous awards and citations as well as being nominated for Supervisor of the Year. Upon retirement from HCPD, he continued his law enforcement career as an investigator for the Department of Homeland Security.
After his retirement, you could find Randy enjoying a variety of activities. He loved fishing, taking long drives on his motorcycle as well as watching any war/western movie- especially if it featured John Wayne. Randy always felt that he was born in the wrong era. He fancied himself a cowboy and could often be seen around town in his cowboy boots, hat and belt buckle. He loved all things “King” George Strait and a shot of Jameson Whiskey.
While Randy loved being a Marine and police officer, he didn’t love anything as much as his time with his babies- especially the younger ones. He spent his days at the baseball field watching Ethan play ball or playing dozens of rounds of UNO with Lilly. He adored playing peek-a-boo with his Ellie Bear and always looked forward to their naps together.
His legacy of family, hard work, dedication, honor and integrity will live on in all those he loved and impacted. He will forever be missed.