Ivan “Randy” Whitehead

Ivan “Randy” Whitehead, 84, passed away peacefully on April 1, 2026, surrounded by loved ones. Born on April 27, 1941, Randy lived a full life marked by a deep devotion to his family and friends. Randy took Christ as his Savior, and his faith provided him with strength, comfort, and hope. Randy grew up attending Centenary Methodist Church in Smithfield with his family- they would walk to church because it was so close to their home- a weekly shared ritual.

He was preceded in death by Grace Wester Whitehead (mother), John Wesley Whitehead (father), John Wesley Whitehead Jr. (brother), Faye Matthews Whitehead (wife).

Randy built his career as a car dealer, where his charisma, easy sense of humor, and genuine care for people earned him the trust of customers and colleagues alike. He took great pride in his work and in the relationships, he formed over the years. Outside of his career, Randy was a passionate racing enthusiast. Race days were sacred to him—he followed the sport faithfully, finding joy, excitement, and community in every lap turned and every checkered flag waved.

He also loved life’s simple pleasures. Randy never passed up a great meal enjoyed in good company, and his favorite place was at the beach, where he could relax, take in the view, and savor the moment. Randy would go to Topsail Island often in his younger days to fish and go to the beach.

Above all else, Randy cherished his family. He is survived by his son, Ivan Whitehead; his daughter, Michelle Nelson; and his beloved granddaughters, Caroline and Charlotte Nelson, who were a constant source of pride and delight in his later years. He is also survived by his sister, Margaret Wall, whose lifelong bond with Randy was a cornerstone of his life, and his Nieces and Nephews: Elizabeth Smith (Donnie), Catherine Wall, Grace Dutton (Larry), Bob Wall, Darrell Whitehead (Isabel) and Keira Whitehead (Chris) as well as Great Nieces and Nephews, as well as his faithful friend and companion of ten years Ginny LaRose, whose steadfast presence, love, and support meant the world to him.

Randy will be remembered for his genuine kindness, his steady presence, and his love of good conversation, fast cars, and time spent with those he held dear. His legacy lives on in the family he loved so deeply and in the many lives he touched along the way.

A celebration of life will be held at West Calvary Church in Smithfield, NC- details to follow. In lieu of flowers, consider a donation to your local SPCA or Animal shelter as Randy was a lover of all pets, especially his cats.

Online condolences can be made at www. parrishfh.com.