Randy Jennings

Randy Dale Jennings, 38, died after a lifelong battle with uncontrollable high blood pressure and kidney failure on May 17th, 2011.

He was born February 20, 1973 in Portageville, MO to Sarah Kirby Jennings and Henry Jennings. He attended Portageville High School and graduated in 1992. He married the love of his life on December 30th, 2010.

He lived in Republic, MO with his wife, Elaine Jennings and his two "babies", his dogs Pepper and Bailey.

Randy worked for Program Select Basketball and coached kids from kindergarten through high school. He shared his love and passion for the game and enjoyed seeing kids grow and achieve under his instruction. Coach Randy was a role model for many kids in the community. He had a gift for making every player feel valued both on and off the court. He will especially be remembered for his sense of humor, his laugh and smile, being completely devoted to Elaine, his friends, his family and his career. Everyone that knew him loved him and felt a personal connection with him because he gave of himself so willingly.

He is preceded in death by his mother, Sarah Kirby Jennings.

He leaves to cherish his memories, his wife, Elaine Bernier Jennings; his father, Henry Jennings; 4 brothers, Terry (Sandra) Kirby, Larry (Helen) Kirby, Bobby Kirby, Henry Jennings Jr.; 1 sister, Darline Kirby; 9 nieces, Dena Franks, Sharale Jones, Myka Hill, Leah Hill, Kristen Hill, Jayla Hunt, Nayesha Jones, Brittney Kirby, and Sarah Kirby; 6 nephews, Terrale Jones, Devin Kirby, Joshua Kirby, Lorenzo Kirby, Larry Kirby, Joe Kirby; six great nieces and nephews; and many friends that became his family over his lifetime.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, May 22nd, 2011 from 6-8 pm with a prayer service starting at 8 in Herman H. Lohmeyer Funeral Home 500 East Walnut St. Springfield, MO. 65806. A funeral Mass will be held on Monday, May 23rd, 2011 at 3:00 pm in Sacred Heart Catholic Church 1609 North Summit Ave. Springfield, MO 65803. Graveside services will occur after mass at Hazelwood Cemetery 1642 E. Seminole St. Springfield, MO. 65804.

Memorial contributions are welcome, please contact Colleen Dorsey at (417) 840-9549, jcdorsey68@gmail.com, 218 South Dogwood Republic, MO 65738.

Online condolences can be made at www.hhlohmeyer.com. Thanks to all the basketball families, friends, and family who have so willingly helped Randy and his wife during this most difficult time.