Joe "Bud" Edward Randolph

Joe Edward “Bud” Randolph was born April 5, 1947 in Gainesville, Ga to the late James Hoyt and Nancy McDowell Randolph. As a young child, he was given the nickname, “Bug Fuzz” because of his hairiness, but as he grew older until this day, he became known as “Bud.” Upon graduating with the class of 1965 from E. E. Butler High School, Joe entered the US Army in 1966 and two years later, based upon recommendation of his Commanding Officer, he was considered to be the most outstanding soldier and received “Soldier of the Month” of the 16th Aviation Battalion. Upon completion of this service to his country, Joe received his honorable discharge in 1972. Pursuing personal interests, Joe enrolled in Lanier Technical College and received his Certificate of Training in Automotive Mechanics. He used this acquired skill to supplement his income while working other various jobs to help support his family. In 1976, Joe enlisted in the Division of the US Army Reserve, assigned to the 802nd Infantry Division and during his time in this service, the Secretary of the Army acknowledged his patriotism, valor, fidelity, professional excellence, dedication and leadership and Joe was promoted from Specialist Five to Staff Sergeant. Joe faithfully continued serving in this capacity while continuing to explore other avenues of employment and personal interests with the dream of one day becoming a business owner. It was while working for the Department of Transportation, Joe envisioned his dream becoming closer to reality. He obtained his Master Barber’s License and in 1991 opened Randolph’s Barber Shop. In 1997, after 25 years of faithful service, Joe retired from the Division of the Army Reserve as an E7 Sergeant First Class. As a humble man, Joe’s greatest desire was to share his success by using the barbershop as a teaching and training ground to help many young men that also had the dream of one day becoming successful barbers themselves. Once honored during Black History Month, Joe was recognized for his business and work ethics. He was valued as a man that taught the value in building a brand, always being consistent and most importantly being customer focused. Acknowledged as a leader in the community, he mentored generations of young men, created jobs and served as a staple in the community for years. It brought him great joy when patrons returned and spoke to him of the influence he had on their lives and their success. His legacy will continue to live on through the barbers who continue to work in his barbershop and the many barbers who have established barbershops on their own. Joe joined First Baptist Church earlier in life but also attended Rucker Memorial Church, Iglesia del Dios Vivo International and Antioch Baptist Church. Joe was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Jimmy L Randolph; sister, Julia Ethridge Randolph; daughter, Shannon J. Ali; son in law Terrence W. Holeman. He leaves to cherish his memories his wife, Deidra S Randolph; daughters, Joy N Holeman and Aya Lewis; sons, Joe E (Dacia) Randolph II, Bredron Lytle, and son in law, Bilal Ali; father in law, Tom B Lewis; Brother in law, Michael E Lewis; Sisters in law, Martha Randolph, Andrea (Terry) Morrow and Jonsita Lewis. 14 grandchildren, 4 great-grandchildren, several nieces, nephews, and cousins. Dearest friends: Lucious Buffington and Robert (Margaret) Finch, and the many countless friends he enjoyed.

Joe "Bud" Edward Randolph

April 5, 1947 - March 4, 2026