Jon Randall McFarland (known to all as Randy McFarland) 

September 25, 1947 – September 9, 2026 

Jon Randall "Randy" McFarland—local historian, author, announcer, community servant, and family man—peacefully passed away on September 9, 2026, at the age of 78. Randy’s life can best be described as a well-written novel with many amazing chapters, leaving a footprint throughout the valley that will endure well beyond our lives. 

Randy was an only child, born to Jesse McFarland and Irene “Peg” Starr in Los Angeles on September 25, 1947. During his fifth-grade year, Randy moved to Big Creek, California, where his parents managed the general store until he reached eighth grade. While looking for a place to relocate, Randy’s parents stopped in the city of Fowler and decided to lay down roots—a decision that would instill community pride for decades to come. Randy attended Fresno State University and graduated with a degree in radio and television in 1969. One year later, while working for the Cincinnati Post, Randy met and married Diane Kremer. They returned to the Central Valley to build their family with their son, Chris, and daughter, Beth. In 1994, Randy met Laurel Jacobsen, whom he later married in 2000, warmly expanding his family once again. 

Randy was probably best known for his voice—announcing at parades, band festivals, games (including serving as a guest announcer for Minor and Major League Baseball), shows, and concerts throughout the valley, such as the Kingsburg Summer Concert Series, Swedish Festival Parade, Fowler Fall Festival, Firebaugh Christmas Parade, and the Selma Band Festival and Parade. At the local level, Randy was most notable as the “Voice of Selma.” In addition to announcing community events, he served as Selma High School’s football announcer for over 40 years, continuing a calling he began at age 16 announcing Fowler games. 

In the world of media, Randy devoted more than two decades to editing and reporting for newspapers, including the Selma Enterprise, The Fresno Bee, Fowler Ensign, Cincinnati Post, Tulare Advance-Register, and Paradise Post. In 1991, Randy founded a consulting company providing public relations and media services to Central Valley agricultural water agencies. He was frequently featured on the news and in historical documentaries. As a valley historian, Randy authored nine local history publications and was completing his final book on the history of Fowler when he became ill, which will be completed by his stepchildren. Randy’s knowledge of water rights and Central Valley history was vast and unmatched. 

Randy served as a dedicated member and leader in numerous organizations, including the Fresno County Historical Landmark Commission, Fowler Friday Evening Club, Camp Sierra Board of Directors, Selma Raisin Cain Players / Selma Arts Center, and the Selma District Cemetery Board. His awards and recognitions include: Selma Distinguished Service Award (1993), Selma Citizen of the Year (1981 and 2025), Selma Band Festival Grand Marshal (1997), Fowler Friend of the Year (2000), Selma Pioneer of the Year (1983), Proclamation of “Jon Randall McFarland Day” (November 5, 2024) by the Fresno County Board of Supervisors 

For fun, Randy enjoyed traveling the world; following his passion for trains; socializing with his community; greeting people at church; acting and producing in local theater, where he met lifelong friends and family; attending his grandchildren's sporting events and concerts; and encouraging others to cultivate their talents. Randy was a dedicated father, stepfather, husband, grandfather, friend, and an extraordinary man. His contributions to his community, friends, and family are immeasurable, and he will be deeply missed. 

Randy is survived by his wife, Laurel Jacobsen; son Chris McFarland (wife Amanda); daughter Beth McFarland; stepson Jonathan Waltmire (fiancée Amanda); stepson Jason Waltmire (wife Cyndi); stepdaughter Joy Bratton (husband Darin); seven grandchildren; one great-grandchild; and many others who considered Randy family. We’d also like to thank Bethel Lutheran Home of Selma, and Magnolia Crossings in Clovis for the amazing care they provided to Randy during his illness. 

A funeral service is scheduled for Saturday, September 26, beginning with a celebration of life service at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Easton at 11:00 a.m. and ending with a burial and luncheon in Laton. The memorial service will be livestreamed for those unable to attend; details will be provided at a later date. Memorial donations can be made to the Kingsburg Summer Band Concert Series (c/o Kingsburg Chamber of Commerce, 1475 Draper St., Kingsburg, CA 93631), the Fresno City and County Historical Society (P.O. Box 11336, Fresno, CA 93772), or the charity of your choice. For up-to-date information, please visit the Facebook page of Joy Waltmire Bratton, where public updates will be posted.