Randall Sailors

Rev. Dr. Randall R. Sailors

Randall Rex Sailors was born on June 3, 1948 to Roland Edgar Sailors and Beulah Belle Bourelle Sailors in Pender NE. He and his brothers Ron and Roger grew up in Walthill NE. He graduated from Morningside College in Sioux City IA, received his Master of Divinity from Evangelical Theological Seminary in Naperville IL, and his Doctor of Ministry degree from Garrett- Evangelical Theological Seminary in Evanston IL.

He and Ronnette were married in Lake Park IA on August 8, 1971. Together they raised and nurtured son Aaron Michael and daughter Sherrine Renee. They were married for 52 years.

Randy was called to ministry at an early age, and would stand behind a makeshift "pulpit" and preach to his friends. Talented in drama, art, music and writing, he used these gifts to share the love of Christ and the assurance of God's love for every person. He served Nebraska United Methodist churches in the Custer Parish (internship in Ansley/Westerville and 5 years in Merna/Anselmo NE), Waverly, Aurora, Faith Westwood in Omaha, and St. Mark's in Lincoln. He then served as District Superintendent for the Southwest District in Nebraska for three years and the Omaha/Missouri River District in Nebraska for five years before retiring, for a total of forty years in ministry. He served on various committees and commissions for the NE Annual Conference and the local community. For fifteen years, he also served on the Board of Trustees at Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary in IL.

He was a devoted husband, father and grandfather, and was happiest when surrounded by family. He says he raised the best kids and had the best family in the universe. He enjoyed woodworking/cabinet making, playing his piano and organ, reading, traveling, and having coffee or a meal with friends. His favorite celebrations were Christmas and any family party. We remember his wonderful smile, his kindness, and great sense of humor. He loved pie, fudge, and a good steak; he hated mowing the lawn.

Randy was preceded in death by his parents, and is survived by his wife Ronnette, son Aaron Sailors (Cheri) of Omaha, daughter Sherrine Sailors (Lee Bokma) of Omaha, three granddaughters Daphne, Elise and Gwenyth Fossler, former son-in-law Eddie Fossler, brothers Ron and Roger (Jane), brother-in-law Randolph (Kathy) and dear nieces, nephews, cousins, friends and colleagues.

Celebration of Life service will be Saturday, September 9, 2023, 10:30am, at FaithWestwood United Methodist Church, 4814 Oaks Lane, Omaha NE 68137 with a lunch immediately following in the Fellowship Hall. Services will be livestreamed on Facebook and YouTube-see faithwestwood.com for links posted at least 4 hours before the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to (1) Randall R. Sailors Scholarship Fund, Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary, Attention David Heetland, 2121 Sheridan Road, Evanston IL 60201 or (2) St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis TN 38105.