Beech Tree News Network

Joseph Randal Boykin, known to family and friends as Randy, passed away on Thursday, April 2, 2026, at his residence in Rochester, Kentucky, at the age of 85. 

Randy was born on February 19, 1941, in Kenly, North Carolina, and lived a life marked by devotion, hard work, and a deep love for those around him. Randy was a United States Army veteran, and he carried the values of service, discipline, and perseverance with him throughout his life.  He was a man who could be counted on. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Marvin L. and Mary Almars Horne Boykin; two siblings, Tom and Tennie Boykin; and his son-in-law, Eddie Shephard.

Randy is survived by his wife of 47 years, Beverly Peay Boykin of Rochester, Kentucky, whom he married on February 6, 1979. Together they built a life centered on love, family, and devotion. He is also survived by his children, Angie Shephard of North Carolina, Ryan Peay and his wife Kelly of Beechmont, Kentucky, and Shannon Austin and her husband Johnny of Rochester, Kentucky. His legacy continues through his grandchildren, McKenzie Parrish of North Carolina, Kali Hayes of North Carolina, Justin Peay and his wife Grace of Beechmont, Kentucky, Joseph “JoJo” Peay and his wife Makayla of Greenville, Kentucky, Shelby Austin Robinson and her husband Ethan of Rochester, Kentucky, Olivia Austin of Rochester, Kentucky, and Trey Austin of Rochester, Kentucky. He also leaves behind nine great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews who will cherish his memory.

Randy worked hard throughout his life and took pride in an honest day’s work. Following his military service, he built a long and hardworking career as a truck driver. He retired from Green River Equipment after also working for Adwest Mining, West Express, and Parr Trucking. His work ethic and dependable nature earned the respect of those who worked alongside him. He was the kind of man who could be counted on, and he approached every job with determination and care.Outside of work, Randal found joy in the simple and meaningful things in life. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. These moments brought him great happiness, and his family was the center of his world.

Funeral services will be held at the Jones Funeral Chapel Monday, April 6, 2026 at 1:00pm with Bro. Roger Heltsley officiating. Burial will be in the Rochester Cemetery where Justin Peay, JoJo Peay, Ethan Robinson, Tanner Peay, Trey Austin, Andrew Gabbard and Tony Horn will serve as pallbearers. Visitation will be held on Monday, April 6, 2026 from 9:30am until funeral time at 1:00pm at the Jones Funeral Chapel. Please share any photos, memories, condolences or light a candle in memory of Randy at www.jonesfuneralchapel.com. Jones Funeral Chapel is honored to be serving the family of Joseph Randal Boykin. 

***The Funeral Service will be live streamed Monday, April 6, 2026 at 1:00pm, to watch live please visit our website www.jonesfuneralchapel.com, go to Joseph Randal Boykin's obit, click on Tribute Wall and then live stream.