Randy Allen Cregar, 50, of Wellsville passed away at his home on May 20, 2026.
A celebration of life was held on May 27 at Reach Community Church.
Randy was born in Hermann Area District Hospital on August 25, 1975 to the late Danny K. Cregar and Connie Sue (Stoneberger) Carmichael.
Survivors include his mother, Connie Carmichael, and step-father, Bruce Carmichael, both of Wellsville; his siblings, Danielle Tischer (Brent) of New London, Bobby Smith (Ashley) of Centralia, Ariana Thompson (Marshall) of Mokane, Jeff Carmichael of Boonville and Jennifer Allen (Tom) of Mexico (Audrain County). He is also survived by many loving nieces and nephews, aunts and uncles, cousins and friends.
Randy was preceded in death by his father, Danny K. Cregar; his paternal grandparents, Joe and Betty Cregar; his maternal grandparents, Alex Stoneberger and Ann (Talbot) Prior, and many other loving family members.
Randy had such a gentle and quiet spirit, and he was unable to speak while he walked this earth, but that didn’t stop him from changing the hearts of those who knew and loved him. When he was very young, doctors said he would never walk, but his mom believed in miracles and possibilities. She went to school to learn physical therapy and began working with Randy regularly until he finally learned to walk at the age of seven. Due to his disability, doctors said he would not live past his early teens, but he proved them wrong by living until the ripe age of 50. He taught everyone around him that despite the limitation, anything is possible. He was very determined and, despite his disabilities, he knew how to communicate his needs and he especially knew how to communicate his deep love for others.
His passing leaves behind an emptiness that words cannot describe. Randy lived a life that reminded everyone around him what truly matters: kindness, patience, joy, laughter and loving relationships. He reminded those around him to appreciate the little things that people often overlook.
He found the deepest joy in full cups of sweet tea, snacks left on the counter, going out to eat, riding the golf cart with his family, partaking in familiar routines, playing with “toys” like Croc brand shoes or hair brushes, taking naps and being surrounded by people he loved…especially his sweet and selfless mom. They shared an unbreakable bond that was marked by unwavering devotion and profound love. Randy always held onto his mom’s arm everywhere they went and he enjoyed escorting her around. He was a real man.
Randy had a way of making people softer. He taught those around him humility, compassion, gratitude and unconditional love. He reminded people that every person deserves dignity, patience and kindness. Randy had a way of teaching others to love more deeply and his mother’s devoted care for him beautifully demonstrated that love in action.
One of the sweetest things about Randy was how expressive he was whenever someone showed him love or kindness. His reactions, excitement and personality brought joy to the people around him in a way that can never be replaced.
The love surrounding Randy throughout his life was extraordinary, especially from his mother and family, who devoted themselves endlessly to his happiness, safety and well-being. Through their love, Randy was able to live a life filled with comfort, laughter, routine and genuine joy. The devotion shown between Randy and his loved ones was a beautiful example of love and unwavering family commitment.
Though hearts are heavy here on earth, there is comfort in imagining the beautiful reunion that must have taken place in heaven between Randy and his dad and other loved ones gone before him. Free from every earthly limitation, we picture Randy finally running freely, talking endlessly, making people laugh and bringing the same light and spirit there that he brought to all of us here.
Randy’s life was meaningful, not because of what he accomplished in the traditional sense, but because of the love he gave, the love he inspired and the way he changed the hearts of the people who were blessed enough to know him.
Randy will be loved forever, missed deeply, and remembered always.
May the memories of Randy’s sweet spirit, kind heart and great sense of humor bring comfort to those mourning his passing. Rest in peace, Randy, and may your legacy continue to inspire us all.
In lieu of memorial contributions, Randy’s family asks that his memory be honored by showing kindness, dignity and love to those living with disabilities and special needs. Take time to smile at them, speak with them, include them, advocate for them and truly see them. Help create a world that is more welcoming, accessible and compassionate — whether by building ramps, improving community spaces, supporting their caregivers, offering friendship and real help and by treating every person with patience and respect. Randy’s life was a reminder that every individual has immeasurable value and the family hopes his legacy will inspire others to serve and care for people like him with open hearts. There would be no greater tribute to Randy than to love others like Christ loves us.
