Randall Jay Kilbride

Randall (Randy) Jay Kilbride passed away on February 21, 2025 in Columbus, Ohio following a lengthy argument with Colon Cancer that he could not win.  He passed peacefully at home surrounded by his loving wife of 23 years, Carolyn and two beloved Collies, Roosevelt and Luther at the age of 53 (or 643 months as he would say).

Raised in Avon Lake, Ohio, Randy was born the youngest son to Jack and Barbara Kilbride (Cutting) on July 13, 1971. Randy earned degrees from Wittenberg University (BA Political Science, 1993) and Syracuse University (JD Law, 1996) before dedicating 28 years to practicing Law in Columbus. He vigorously served his clients in both private practice at Flint and Kilbride and as a Partner at Barkan Meizlish.  

Randy is survived by his loving wife Carolyn (Cromer) Kilbride, his Collie children Roosevelt and Luther, his brother Terry Kilbride (Nina) and nephews Ryan and Jack Kilbride.  He was preceded in death by his first Collie Child, Irwin M. Fletcher Kilbride (Fletch) and parents Jack and Barbara (Cutting) Kilbride.

His love for the Cleveland Guardians (Indians), Browns and Cavaliers as well as the Philadelphia Phillies and Flyers was imprinted early in childhood. In later years he was a devoted follower of the Columbus Blue Jackets and Columbus Clippers.  Those who knew Randy best cherished his quick wit, love of laughter, and unfailing generosity.  He will be remembered for his love of argument, his intense, unsugarcoated opinions (and inability to hold his tongue), his love for his wife, collies, R.E.M. and new music discovery, innumerable acts of unsolicited kindness throughout his life, and for his intense and irrational hatred for both Dave Matthews and Steve Miller bands. Randy loved to argue and did not suffer fools or mince words.  Although frustrating at times, he was always authentic to himself.  Irascible, argumentative, quick to laugh, sharp witted and irreplaceable, he will be loved and missed dearly.

A celebration will be held in honor of Randy on July 12, 2025, one day before what would have been his 54th birthday.  Friends are invited to gather, laugh,  talk about him in a way that would make him feel both loved and profoundly uncomfortable, and to raise a glass to Randy - just as he would wish.  Celebration will take place July 12, 2025 from 3:00-6:00 p.m. at Matt & Tony's Kitchen + Tavern (340 E. Gay Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215).