Evan Randolph IV, age 90, of Manchester-by-the-Sea, passed away peacefully at home on Friday, July 18th, surrounded by his devoted family. The beloved husband of Penelope (Penny Dixon) Randolph for 61 years, he was her rock, she his fire. A cherished husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend, ever a gentleman with a twinkle, Evan lived a full and joy-filled life.
Born January 2nd, 1935, the son of the late Evan and Frances (Beale) Randolph III, he was raised in Philadelphia, attended Milton Academy and Harvard College, class of 1957, where he majored in Economics… although he much preferred rowing on the Harvard crew team. A Navy man, 1957 – 1960, he proudly served as gunnery officer on the USS McGowan. All who knew him well will recall his love of naval analogies. He skillfully captained his own ship, providing strength and leadership through rough and calm seas alike. Accomplished professionally, he became President of Marketing for several corporations, ultimately forming his own successful firm, R+R Direct Marketing.
Evan had varied interests and deep connections with his family and community. He took great pleasure researching Divine Wisdom, family genealogy, and the USS Constellation, captained by his ancestor Commodore Thomas Truxtun who was commissioned by George Washington as one of the first officers of the newly formed United States Navy. Evan served on various committees related to the USS Constitution and Harvard Reunions. He was also a vestryman and for over 60 years, an active member of St. John’s Episcopal Church in Beverly Farms. Above all he loved family time: weekends at the cabin he and Penny built in NH and spring breaks on St. Croix with his crew, originally 5 expanding to 14. Family adventures included fishing, skiing, hiking, camping, sailing on their Rhodes 19, and celebrating each other. In all his endeavors, Evan’s focus assured their completion. He’d say, “I love to find a thicket and attack it.” He would, he did, he succeeded.
Evan is survived by his loving wife, Penny and their three adoring daughters: Penelope Frances (Thomas A. D. Watson) Randolph, Camilla Randolph (Michael A. Girard) Girard, Lisa Lawrence (Brian Cooke) Randolph; 6 grandchildren: Polly and Courtlandt Watson, Belle and Evan Girard, and Cyros Jr. and Hope Strickland; his brothers, John and Leonard Randolph. His youngest brother Francis predeceased him.
His funeral services will be celebrated at St. John’s Episcopal Church in Beverly Farms on September 27th at 11:00 AM. Relatives and friends are invited to attend. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Evan’s memory to St. John’s Church or the Salvation Army. Information, directions, condolences at www.campbellfuneral.com.
