Sydney "Syd" Randall

2/12/26

Sydney “Syd” Randall, a longtime resident of Skaneateles, New York, passed away surrounded by family on February 12, 2026, at the age of 89.

Born on April 2, 1936, to Ralph and Harriett Brown, Syd was raised on a dairy farm in Clyde, New York. She graduated from Clyde High School with the Class of 1953 and went on to attend Syracuse University, where she studied microbiology, earning her Bachelor of Science degree in 1957. It was at Syracuse she met the love of her life, George, at a church social. They were married in 1955 and shared nearly 69 years together.

As a US. Air Force wife, Syd embraced a life of travel and homemaking. She and George raised four daughters, creating a warm, loving home wherever they were stationed.  Throughout her life, Syd remained deeply engaged in her communities, volunteering extensively at church and at her daughters’ schools and extracurricular activities. Still, her passion for learning never waned and in 1973, she earned her Master of Science degree in Family and Consumer Economics at the University of Maryland, College Park.

In 1980, Syd and George returned to Skaneateles, where she continued her commitment to service, family, and friendship. Known for her intelligence, warmth, and sense of humor, Syd was cherished by all who knew her. She proudly held the title of “World’s Best Mom,” was promoted to “Grandma” in 1995, and, most recently, to “Granny” in 2025—a role she embraced with joy.

Syd is survived by her four daughters: Sharon, Cindy Taylor (Chris), Margie, and Pam; granddaughter, Courtney Carlile (Alex), and her great-grandson, Tommy Carlile; and her sister, Sue Pendergast (Dave). She was preceded in death by her husband, George; her parents, Ralph and Harriett Brown; and her brother, Allyn “Brud” Brown. 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Syd’s memory to the First Presbyterian Church of Skaneateles or to the Finger Lakes SPCA of Central New York in Auburn. Condolences may be shared at robertdgrayfuneralhome.com.

Mom - As you are cruising around in your red Mustang convertible . . . . Romeooo!