Randall (Randy) Wayne Motley, aged 65, passed away peacefully on August 31, 2026. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, mentor, and friend, Randy lived a life defined by faith, joy, generosity, and an unwavering commitment to spreading laughter wherever he went.

Born on October 26, 1960, Randy grew up in Carthage, Missouri, where he met the love of his life, Vana VanZandt. Though they both grew up in Carthage, their courtship truly took root during visits home while he was away at MidAmerica Nazarene College earning a degree in Music Ministry. Their bond remained steadfast through the distance, and on August 5, 1983, they wed. They spent forty-three wonderful years together, walking hand in hand, nearly inseparable, as they navigated life’s journey. They loved to go on new adventures and loved just doing life together, whatever it may be.

Randy spent his early career serving as a youth pastor and music minister in Little Rock, Arkansas. He and Vana then moved to Olathe, Kansas, where they laid down roots that would last for the rest of their lives. Randy returned to college to earn a degree in Computer Science. He enjoyed a long career in Data Warehouse Management before turning his passion for exploration into running his own travel agency.

Faith and family were the heartbeat of Randy’s life. He generously served his church and community. At College Church, he was a cornerstone of Teen Bible Quizzing for nearly two decades—serving as a beloved coach and quizmaster for local, district, and regional teams across Kansas City and the MNU region. In this role, he mentored countless young people, including coaching all four of his own children. Music was another gift he shared generously throughout his life; whether playing in his high school jazz band, singing in the choir, or playing the saxophone on the worship team at Grace Community Church, Randy found endless delight in making music.

Few roles brought Randy greater happiness than being "Grandpa" to Lexi, Nora, Evelyn, and Oliver. He treasured every moment spent with his four grandchildren - whether playing games with them, having them over for movie nights and sleepovers, or taking them on unforgettable trips. He poured his spirit of adventure, patience, and playfulness into his grandkids, creating memories they will carry with them forever.

A true lover of life’s adventures, Randy spent his years traveling, cruising, and taking in the wonders of the world with Vana at his side. Later in life, he discovered a love for dance, stepping onto the floor to learn West Coast Swing along with Vana and becoming a familiar face in the Kansas City dance community. Randy was also a die-hard Kansas City sports fan who stood loyally by the Royals and the Chiefs through every season, reveling in the joy of seeing both teams bring home championships. Game days were often a family affair, anchored by "Chiefs Chow Downs" and a fresh batch of his famous Chex Mix.

Those who knew Randy were blessed to listen to a gifted storyteller with a warm heart and an unforgettable presence. He was always ready with a favorite anecdote, an encouraging word, or a quintessential dad joke that brought equal parts groans and laughter. To know Randy was to know the sound of his laugh and the light of his smile. His life leaves behind a simple, powerful legacy: soak up life, love generously, seek out adventure, and spread joy.

Randy is survived by his beloved wife, Vana; his siblings, Carol Pierce (with her husband Dan Pierce) and Cindy Hann (with her husband Bryan Hann); his four children and their families: Anya and Michael Grovenburg (and their daughters, Lexi and Nora), Alec Motley and Laura Kindle, Austin Motley and Samantha Cacy, and Aaron and Megan Motley (and their children, Evelyn and Oliver). He was preceded in heaven by his parents, A.R. and Isabelle Motley, and his brother-in-law, Charles Green (Carol’s late husband).

A visitation will be held at 12:00 pm followed by a celebration of Randy’s life at 1:00 pm on September 19th, 2026, at Grace Community Church of the Nazarene, 19300 US-169 S, Spring Hill, KS 66083.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider making a gift to Grace Community Church of the Nazarene with the memo “In Memory of Randy Motley”. The designated donations will be used for Children’s/Youth Ministry and Worship Arts (Praise Team) Ministry, honoring Randy’s lifelong passion for investing in and supporting the next generation and his love of bringing music to others. Donations can be mailed to the address above or given online at gccn.churchcenter.com/giving.