Randolph

Simpson

The Life and Legacy of Randolph Simpson

Randolph Simpson, a deeply loved family man, celebrated basketball coach of more than 30 years, and dedicated school administrator, peacefully entered eternal rest on October 28, 2026, following a courageous battle with congestive heart failure in Harbor City, California.

Born in Los Angeles on March 27, 1960, to Indiana Simpson and Edward Zander Simpson, Sr., Randolph was the youngest of three children. Raised in Los Angeles, he dedicated his life to Christ, establishing a foundation of faith that would guide him throughout his life.

Randolph attended Santa Barbara Elementary School, Foshay Middle School, and Manual Arts High School. It was during these formative years that he developed a passion for sports while demonstrating a strong commitment to academics. At Manual Arts, he played varsity football as a defensive lineman, proudly wearing number 74. His athletic talent was captured in a 1976 Los Angeles Herald Examiner sports photograph during a game against Dorsey High School.

Following high school, Randolph continued his educational journey at California State University, Los Angeles, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Physical Education. His commitment to education and professional growth later led him to earn a Master of Arts degree in Educational Administration from National University.

A Legacy of Education, Leadership, and Basketball

Randolph's professional journey reflected his passion for education, athletics, and mentoring young people. Beginning his career as a biology teacher, he also launched what would become an extraordinary basketball coaching career at his alma mater, Manual Arts High School.

As a coach, Randolph became a respected and celebrated figure in Los Angeles high school basketball. He served as an assistant coach for six years, starting in 1982, which included the Toilers’ historic and successful state championship run in 1988. He was promoted to head coach following that season.His leadership helped guide the powerful Manual Arts Toilers to Los Angeles City Section championships over Crenshaw in 1990 (4A) and Fairfax in 1999 (City), as well as the North Hollywood Invitational championship in 2000.

His influence extended far beyond wins, championships, and the basketball court. Randolph believed in developing young people, encouraging them to recognize their potential, and teaching lessons that would serve them throughout life.

His dedication to education eventually led him into school administration, where he served as Vice Principal at Frederick KC Price III Christian School and Inglewood High School, in addition to Principal of Crozier Middle School in Inglewood. In every position he held, Randolph brought leadership, wisdom, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to students and staff.

Following his storied coaching career at Manual Arts, Randolph continued to give back to the community in numerous ways. He established his own sports apparel business, mentored basketball coaches throughout the Los Angeles area, and returned to the classroom as a substitute teacher at Foshay Learning Center and Manual Arts High School. In early 2026, he fulfilled another vision by founding the AE Rebels, a free youth boys' basketball program created to coach, mentor, and teach young athletes.

A Mentor, A Man of Faith, and A Friend to All

Randolph had a remarkable gift for making people smile through his wit, humor, and masterful wisdom. His words often carried lessons that stayed with people long after the conversation ended. Among his most memorable philosophical expressions was his trademark phrase, "Dare to be different."

That simple yet powerful message reflected the way he lived his life. Randolph was never afraid to challenge others to think differently, believe in themselves, and pursue greatness. He naturally became a father figure to countless people, including students, teachers, fellow coaches, administrators, church members, and community members.

Whether offering advice, sharing a laugh, providing encouragement, or simply being present when someone needed him, Randolph made people feel valued. His influence reached far beyond the walls of the schools where he worked and the basketball courts where he coached.

His faith remained an important part of his life. During his blessed six-year membership at South Bay Abundant Life Church, Randolph taught Sunday School, sharing his knowledge and love of Christ with others.

Above All, A Devoted Family Man

While Randolph's professional accomplishments were many, his proudest and most cherished title was always that of family man.

He was the deeply devoted and loving husband of Cheryl Simpson. Together, they built a home rooted in unconditional love, faith, laughter, and radical hospitality. Their marriage was a testament to enduring commitment, partnership, and the beautiful life they created together.

As a father, Randolph loved his children, sons Ryan Simpson, Ricky Duff, and daughter Ravyn Simpson, with fierce devotion. He led by example, demonstrating what it meant to have a servant's heart, to love without conditions, and to provide a safe harbor where his family could grow, flourish, and always feel supported.

Some of Randolph's happiest moments were spent surrounded by his family. He treasured traveling together, attending Los Angeles Rams football games, watching the Lakers play, and capturing photos of special family memories. He was an enthusiastic and involved father who never hesitated to volunteer at his children's school activities. Whether filming sporting events, supporting school programs, or proudly embracing his role as a dance dad, Randolph showed up with love, enthusiasm, and unwavering support.

For Randolph, family was his greatest joy, his greatest blessing, and his most treasured accomplishment.

A Life That Will Forever Be Remembered

Randolph leaves behind his beloved wife of 40 years, Cheryl Simpson; son, Ryan Simpson, and daughter-in-law, Pariss Simpson; daughter, Ravyn Simpson; son, Ricky Duff; sister, Frances Owens; niece, Cathy Simpson; nephew, Fred Rhodes; niece, Whitney Owens Gibson, whom he lovingly raised as a daughter, and her husband, Kris Gibson; grandchildren, Caleb Simpson, Carter Simpson, Ayden Davidson, Julian Duff, Jordin Duff, and Raelynn Duff; and great-nephews, Markus Lewis, Kristian Gibson, and Kolin Gibson.

He also leaves behind a host of loving nieces, nephews, extended family members, cherished friends, former students, colleagues, fellow coaches, and countless individuals whose lives were forever changed by his presence. Randolph is preceded in death by his mother Indiana Simpson, father Edward Zander Simpson Sr. and brother Edward Zander Simpson Jr.

Randolph's life was defined not only by what he accomplished, but by the love he gave, the wisdom he shared, the young people he mentored, and the countless lives he touched along the way.

His legacy will continue through the family he cherished, the students he inspired, the athletes he coached, the educators he encouraged, and the many people who will carry his words and lessons with them.

Though his earthly journey has ended, the impact of his life will never fade. He will be forever remembered, deeply loved, and sincerely missed.

“Play Hard, Play Fast, Don’t Be Scared”, and “God Gave You A Little Bit Of Greatness, So Let It Shine."