James Edgar Randall, age 81, lived a life marked by hard work, loyalty, and a deep love for his family, friends, golf, and basketball. To those who knew him best, however, he was simply and affectionately known as “Pops.”
Born on Christmas Day, December 25, 1944, in Sylacauga, Alabama, James grew up as one of seven children with five sisters and one brother. He attended Hackneyville School, where his love of sports began early. A gifted athlete, James earned All-County honors in both basketball and track.
James carried the same determination he showed as an athlete into a lifetime of hard work. After leaving school, he began working at Russell Mills in Alexander City before beginning what would become a long and dedicated career with the Anniston Water Department. He served as a plant operator for 43 years before retiring.
Retirement, however, didn’t last long. After two years, James returned to work and spent another 10 years as a plant operator with the Clay County Water Department. His more than five decades of service spoke volumes about the kind of man he was—dependable, hardworking, and always willing to keep going.
When he wasn’t working, there was a good chance Pops could be found on a golf course or in a gym. For more than 30 years, he enjoyed early morning rounds of golf at Pine Hill with a special group of golfing friends. Those mornings brought much more than golf—they brought years of friendship, fellowship, stories, and plenty of good memories.
Basketball held an especially meaningful place in his life. His love for the game began during his own school days and continued throughout his lifetime. For more than 25 years, Pops rarely missed a White Plains basketball game, where he had the special joy of watching his son coach. He was a familiar and loyal presence in the stands, proudly supporting his son and the Wildcats year after year. Those countless nights in the gym became a treasured part of his life and reflected both his lifelong love of basketball and, even more importantly, the pride he had in his family.
But as much as he enjoyed golf and basketball, nothing was more important than family. Being “Pops” was a title he wore proudly, and his greatest legacy can be found in the family he loved and the memories they will carry forward.
James is survived by his sons, Chris Randall (Kristi) and Chad Randall; grandson, Dylan Randall; granddaughter, Dr. Ry Randall (Carrie); great-granddaughter, Addie June Randall; sister, Delene Layne; and many cherished nieces and nephews.
James leaves behind more than a long career or a scorecard full of rounds played. He leaves behind the example of a life well lived—a life of showing up, working hard, staying loyal to the people and things he loved, and finding joy in familiar faces and simple traditions.
For his family and the many people fortunate enough to know him, there will always be an empty seat in the gym, a missing member of the early morning golf group, and countless memories of the man they lovingly called Pops.
A Memorial Service will be held at The Magnolia House at Cremation Services of East Alabama on Thursday, August 13th, 2026, with visitation from 2:00PM-4:00PM and service to follow at 4:00PM.
