Mackey “Randy” Marple, age 73, a life-long resident of Altus, Oklahoma, passed from this life on April 7, 2023, in Altus, Oklahoma.
Randy was born October 29, 1949 to parents, Bobbye(Muse) and Rudy Marple. From the beginning, Randy was a big robust boy who was innately good natured. Randy’s love and care for others most surely can be traced to his mother, while Randy’s sense of responsibility and hard work was nurtured by his father. All this, coupled with being raised in a Christian home amid a large extended family in a supportive community, built the man that was able to give back so much to his family, church, friends and community.
Randy was active in sports in all levels of school. He was an outstanding football player and wrestler, graduating from Altus High School in 1968. After high school, he accepted a full football scholarship to Cameron University, graduating in 1973.
Randy met Gema, the love of his life, while in high school and they married in 1968. Although both young, they found a forever love that survived both the good and hard times. They recently celebrated 55 years of marriage.
Randy and Gema built their home on the rock that is Christ Jesus. They have attended First Baptist Church for 50 years, where Randy became a deacon in 1979. Randy lived his faith daily.
After college, Randy expanded A & A Nursery that his father had established and built it into a thriving business that beautified many area homes and businesses. Also, Randy hired local young men that grew to love and respect him for the way he ran his business and lived his life.
In 1988, Randy became the Parks and Recreation Director for the City of Altus, a position that he was uniquely qualified for, given his background. Under his leadership, the recreation programs flourished, the city gym was built, the city swimming pool expanded, and the city parks and cemeteries were well kept. Also, Randy helped establish Christmas in the Park along with other community leaders. He was always quick to assist in any initiative working with others to improve the City of Altus.
Randy was active on the Southwest Community Action Board of Directors, where he served as president. Also, he was a member of the Operation Care Board of Directors.
Randy was a dedicated dad and PaPa who supported all his children and grandchildren in their endeavors. He and Gema were tireless in attending all their activities. Randy kept close contact with all his family, always ending a phone conversation with an endearment, most often, “ love you. Y’all come see us.”
Randy is preceded in death by his parents, Rudy and Bobbye Marple and parents-in-law, James and Lola Hatley.
Randy leaves behind to mourn his passing his wife, Gema; son Kevin Marple and wife Angie; daughter, Tracy Sullivan; son Jody Marple and wife Leah; daughter, Keri Borror and husband, Dusty; like a son, Tim Sullivan. Also, 15 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren survive him: Tyler Marple, Chad Jordan and wife Jayla, Brady Marple, Tanner Marple, Abbey Marple, Janessa and husband Andrew Gossett, Kyle Sullivan, Kody Sullivan, Kelsey Sullivan, Bostik Marple, Titus Marple, Aspyn Marple, Brody Borror, Berklea Borror, Bo Borror, and great-grandchildren Oliver and Owen Gossett.
His sister, Terri Brown and husband, Rodney, also survive him, Jasper Rowland who was like a brother to him and wife Shirley, as well as sister-in-laws, Teresa Blank and husband Michael, Patty Youga and husband Tony and a host of family and friends.
Although saddened by Randy’s unexpected passing, we rejoice in his well-lived life of Christian service and witness, leading many families and friends to the Lord. Assured in our beliefs, we know he is rejoicing in Jesus’ presence, and we will join him some day.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you donate to Southwest Community Action, Operation Care or a charity of your choice.
The Marple family received fiends from 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. Tuesday at Lowell - Tims Funeral Home, Altus, Oklahoma.
Funeral services were held 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, April 12, 2023, at the Altus First Baptist Church, with Dr. Jeff Moore officiating.
Services have been entrusted to Lowell - Tims Funeral Home and Crematory Altus, Oklahoma. '
To send flowers in memory of Randy Marple, visit the Tribute Store.
Previous Events
Visitation
11
Apr
1100 E Tamarack Rd
Altus, OK 73521
Funeral
12
Apr
Altus, Oklahoma
Altus, OK 73521
Cemetery Details
Location
Falcon and Veterans Dr.
Altus, OK 73521
