Randall Bolyard Obituary

Randall Bolyard, age 71, was a man whose life was a testament to the enduring power of faith, family, and hard work., Randall was a beacon of light and strength until his peaceful passing on January 31, 2026, in Philippi, WV. He had been declining health; however, his passing was sudden and unexpected. Born on May 13, 1954, in the small town of Grafton, WV., a son of the late Frank Bolyard, and Norma Evelyn Bowman. On July 15, 2000, he joined hands in marriage to the former Mary Elizabeth Phillips who preceded him in death on February 2, 2010. He was a family man through and through, a loving patriarch to a lineage that included his daughters; Kathy Mayle, and Pamela Cunningham and, husband Chris; his grandchildren Matthew Mayle, Latasha Jones, Angela Robinson, Lee Carpenter, and his favorite, Jedidiah Cunningham, as well as several great-grandchildren, brothers; David Bolyard, and wife Karen, Douglas Bolyard, and wife Tawna, Frank J. Bolyard, and wife Shawn, Bradley Bolyard, and wife Lucy, Brian Bolyard, and wife Kimberly, sister Kathy Wilson, and husband Ron, aunt; Sue Bowman, and his special friend; Jan Morgan. We will remember Randall as a guiding light and a source of unwavering support. He was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Norma Evelyn Bolyard, his son Wolf Croston, his brother Steven Bolyard, and his sister-in-law Darlene Bolyard. Randall's journey began as a star on the basketball courts of Newburg High School, where his drive and determination shone brightly. His passion for agriculture led him to West Virginia University, where he graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Agriculture, setting the stage for a life dedicated to nurturing both the land and the people around him. An educator at heart, Randall taught Vocational Agriculture in Preston County, imparting his knowledge and love for the earth to eager young minds. His career path also saw him serving the community through Farm Credit, Preston County DHHR, and finally retiring from Armstrong Flooring in Beverly. His professional life was marked by a commitment to service and excellence. Randall's Christian faith was the cornerstone of his existence. He was life member of the Berea Methodist Church at Colebank. He found great joy in going to church and living out the teachings of Christ every day. His life echoed the inspiring words of Helen Keller: "The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched - they must be felt with the heart.". Randall felt life with his heart, and in doing so, he made the world a more beautiful place for his family and friends. Randall's interests were as vast as the West Virginia hills he called home. He loved hunting and fishing, reveling in the tranquility of nature and the thrill of the chase. His hands were rarely still, always tinkering with riding lawn mowers and vehicles, finding joy in the puzzle of their mechanics. Friends will recall his warm presence at the Hot Dog Hut and Christine's Hot Spot, where laughter and camaraderie were always on the menu. To say Randall Bolyard lived a full life would be an understatement. He embodied the spirit of a motivational speaker, always ready with a word of encouragement or a helping hand. His legacy is one of love, hard work, and faith. A legacy that will continue to inspire all who knew him. As we celebrate Randall's journey to his eternal home, we hold onto the belief that his spirit will forever guide us, like a lighthouse guiding ships safely to shore. His life was well-lived, and his memory will be cherished forever.

Family and friends may gather at the Kittle Family Funeral Home 265 Beech Ave., Philippi on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, from 6pm until 8pm., and again on Thursday, February 5, 2026, from 8am until 11am when a funeral service will be conducted. Pastor Tim Lewis will be the celebrant. In honoring Randall's wishes his remains will be cremated. We are honored to be assisting the family with the arrangements.