Randall Keith Merrifield

Randall Keith Merrifield (70) of Sumter, SC, passed away at his home with his loved ones by his side on Saturday, September 27, 2025. Randy was the son of the late Robert and Loretta (Conaway) Merrifield. He was born on March 13, 1955, in Mount Pleasant, Michigan, and later resided in Woodsfield, Ohio. After moving to Upper Arlington, OH, he married his great love, Louis Slowek. Randy will be remembered most for his humor, quick wit, and just the right amount of sarcasm. He often joked with his children that scientists were trying to recruit him to be cloned—after all, he claimed, he was the perfect human specimen. That playful spirit carried through every part of his life, reminding those around him never to take life too seriously and always to find joy in the little things.

Randy also loved being in the kitchen and cooking delicious meals. He attended Le Cordon Bleu Institute in Las Vegas, where he learned how to prepare amazing dishes. He passed this passion for cooking down to his children and grandchildren.

Randy also found joy in woodworking, a craft that allowed him to leave behind tangible pieces of his love. Among his creations, one of the most treasured was the crib he built for his first grandchild, Riley. That crib went on to hold many more of his grandchildren, becoming a family heirloom built not only of wood, but of devotion and pride.

Family was at the heart of everything Randy did. Whether it was hosting family picnics on the living room floor—which famously turned into a full-blown food fight one night—or sharing laughter around the table, Randy taught his loved ones the importance of fun, love, and togetherness.

Above all, Randy’s legacy is one of laughter, love, and the countless memories he gave to his family and friends. His humor will echo in their stories, his craftsmanship will live on in the pieces he built, and his spirit will continue to shape the lives of those who knew him best.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Loretta “Kay” Merrifield, and five brothers: David Albright, Ronald Albright, Joseph Merrifield, Terry Merrifield, and Larry Merrifield. He is survived by his loving husband, Lou; children Rachel (Francis) Coughlin of Cumming, Georgia; Nathan Merrifield of Woodsfield, Ohio; and Nicole (Tyler) Woodby of Lewis Center, Ohio; stepson Jeffrey Slowek of Nevada; grandchildren Riley Sivard, Norah and Isla Coughlin, Korbin and Kahne Merrifield, and Wren and Tilly Woodby; step-grandson John Slowek; his dear cousin Denise (Michael) Hyde who was more like a sister to him, a beloved nephew Jason Jones, as well as several nieces and nephews.

A private graveside service and celebration of Randy’s life will be held at a later date. In his honor, the family encourages everyone to share a laugh, tell a good story, and enjoy the company of those they love—just as he would have wanted.

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