Lawrence Randal Hazelwood. Born and raised in Elgood, and never strayed far from there, except for the time in the Navy. Home and family were all he ever needed. Give him a tractor and a farm, and his days were happy. Work was just a way to keep the bills paid.

His life was memorable. There was nothing more important to him than his family, especially his grandkids. His last words were "Tell my grandkids Papaw loves 'em". He knew he wasn't coming home.

He never met a stranger, and always had a smile on his face. He was always there to help whoever was in need. Didn't matter if that was his family, or a neighbor down the road. He was there to help. That's the way he was raised. You never turned your back on anyone in need.

He was a strong man. Strong in character and heart. I never knew how much I needed him until he wasn't there. A part of my soul died that day, and I will never get it back.

My mom also died that day...not in body, but in spirit. My brother, well, he has all but been destroyed by the loss of "Father" (that's what he always called Dad).

Randal was the kind of man that left that kind of imprint on your soul. You never forgot him. The kindness in his voice, the sound of his laugh, and the loyalty of a good man.