Randall Samuel Fertitta

Randall Samuel Fertitta, of Houston, passed away on Wednesday, the 14th June 2023, at his home surrounded by his loving family and faithful dog and companion Otis, after a valiant battle with brain cancer. With a life expectancy of less than nine months, he defied the odds and extended his life for almost three years. During that time, he was honored to become a grandpa to his first grandchild, Jude Fertitta, and to witness the beautiful marriage of his youngest son Jonas. He was 77 years of age.

Randy was born in Houston on the 19th of December 1945, to Samuel Joseph Fertitta, Jr, M.D., and Betty Ann Broussard. He was raised in Beaumont, Texas, attended Beaumont High School and maintained many friendships from his childhood years. He attended Tulane University and graduated from Lamar University in 1969. Shortly after graduation, he received notice for active-duty training at Fort Jackson, South Carolina. Following his service, he moved back to Houston to begin a successful career in commercial real estate. Randy was one of the longest standing independent brokers in the Houston area. For 40+ years he sold properties of all asset classes, was a diligent underwriter, a broker of people, and was known in the industry for his tremendous work ethic, persistence – sometimes confused with “nagging” - determination and, most importantly, loyalty.

Randy was extremely proud of his Sicilian roots. “La Familia” was always his number one priority, and his passion for family time was at the heart of his character. Randy’s insistence on attending Sunday morning church with his three kids (although he was usually asleep in the pew), followed by lunch and a required afternoon activity was an unforgettable memory for all. He was completely committed to family time and led by example with the amount of effort he put in for his family: especially weekends with the boys, which included the Briar Club, Dave & Busters, catching a movie at Edwards Theatre, Taco Bell, and topping the day off with a movie rental at Hollywood Video. He loved raising his kids, exercising, talking (even if you weren’t listening), and Italian food. He had a passion for music and loved to sing. His favorite musician was Frank Sinatra, and Randy would “sing Frank” for family and friends at birthdays, weddings, holidays or any opportunity with an audience. While in his twenties during a brief quest for stardom, Randy became friends with the not-yet-famous Barry Manilow who helped him write lyrics in a New York City studio. One and done! Randy also loved to cook, but mostly he liked to eat. His favorite at home creations were “green pasta” and Oreo cookie malts which came to him “in a dream.” He had a reputation for customizing dishes at local Italian restaurants. Have you tried the Randy Fertitta soup at LaGriglia? Surely you saw him having lunch at the bar – a 20-year daily ritual! Both Carrabba’s and Cleburne Cafeteria had designated seats for Randy and regularly customized food orders for him. Randy would also smoothly invite himself to sit at the reserved tables designated for the owner’s family members, which they quickly learned to accept.

Randy never met a stranger and had lifelong friends from all walks of life. He connected easily with others, loved to tease and be teased, tell and retell stories. He mellowed with age and was curious and determined in his search for greater self-awareness, understanding and forgiveness. He left this world as an open book and at peace with himself and those close to him. His best friend, mentor and life coach, Luis Bautista, led Randy on his journey. Our family is eternally grateful to Luis for his guidance, patience, and devotion.

Randy was preceded in death by his parents and his first son, Samuel Thomas Fertitta. He is survived by his daughter, Nicole Fertitta; his son, Lucas Fertitta and his wife Mary, and their son Jude; his son, Jonas Fertitta and his wife Caroline; and his devoted sister, Debby Fertitta Crabtree; along with many nieces, nephews and extended family. Randy was a loving father, grandfather, Uncle “Grandy” and friend to many.

We would like to recognize the women who cared for Dad during his hard-fought journey. Erika, Sonia, Lillian, Adriana, Nena, Elva and Gina – thank you for extending your love to our beloved father during this most difficult time. He loved you like family and the care you provided for him gave us so much peace and allowed us to continue our own lives. Your support was invaluable and we will be forever grateful. Our family could not have endured this battle without each of you. We love you.

A memorial service and celebration of his life is to be conducted at three o’clock in the afternoon on Wednesday, the 9th of August, in the Jasek Chapel of Geo. H. Lewis & Sons, 1010 Bering Drive in Houston.

Immediately following, all are cordially invited to greet the family and share remembrances of Randy during a reception in the adjacent grand foyer.

The family will gather for a private inurnment at Palmer Memorial Episcopal Church in Houston, where Randy will be placed next to his son, Samuel.

The family requests that you wear bright colors to honor Randy’s lifestyle and good taste.

You may also share fond memories and words of comfort and condolence with Mr. Fertitta’s family by selecting the “Add A Memory” icon below.