COLUMBIA, S.C. (WIS) – A former South Carolina NAACP president and longtime community leader has died.
On Saturday, current Columbia NAACP President L. Oveta Glover announced the death of Dr. Lonnie Randolph Junior. The former president of the Columbia branch of the NAACP, Randolph was also the state NAACP leader for over 14 years.
A civil rights leader, Randolph was pivotal in getting the Confederate flag removed from the state house.
A statement issued Saturday night from the South Carolina NAACP reads in part:
“It is with a heavy heart that we inform you of the peaceful ascension of Dr. Lonnie Randolph, Jr., this afternoon, October 19, 2024. His dedication to justice, equality, and service to our community has left a lasting mark for all of us to remember.
“Dr. Randolph’s work and passion for civil rights will continue to inspire us in the days ahead.”
Randolph, a Columbia native and Dreher High School graduate, was a longtime community leader with decades of service under his name. The former NAACP president earned his undergraduate degree in biology from Benedict College before receiving his Doctor of Optometry from the Southern College of Optometry.
Dr. Randolph ran a private optometric practice in Columbia for over 40 years. During this time, he founded the free eye clinic at Palmetto Health, to provide care for K-12 students. Dr. Randolph also served on the board of the Columbia Free Medical Clinic and participated in the Diabetes Task Force of the South Carolina Commission for the Blind.
Dr. Randolph’s efforts gained him recognition as Optometrist of the Year by the South Carolina Optometric Association, which also elected him as its president. He also served as the chairman of the South Carolina Consumer Affairs Commission.
In 2011, Dr. Randolph earned the Order of the Palmetto; the state’s highest civilian honor, for his contributions to the state.
Mrs. Randolph requests to hold calls and outreach so the family can process the loss.
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