Randolph “Randy” Barnard: February 6, 1943 – July 27, 2026

By Montecito Journal   |   September 15, 2026
Randolph “Randy” Barnard, the Summerland resident and Carpinteria avocado rancher who died July 27 at the age of 83

Randolph “Randy” Barnard died peacefully on Monday, July 27, 2026, at his home in Summerland at the age of 83.

He was born to his parents, Jack and Conchita Barnard, on February 6, 1943, in Santa Monica. He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Margaret “Muffy” Barnard; his daughter, Mary Whitney; his son, Tyler Whitney; and his granddaughters, Brooke and Morgan Whitney.

Randy spent much of his time between his home in Summerland and his beloved avocado property, Barnard Ranch, in Carpinteria. At 6-foot-4, he had an iconic look about him: tan skin, a perfectly groomed beard, a boyish grin and, some would say, a fair claim to being the sexiest man alive. More than his looks, Randy was a true stand-up guy. He was kind and honest, and he put everyone around him at ease with his easygoing humor and playful spirit.

Randy was a simple man who loved what he loved. A foodie, he especially enjoyed Mexican food, best paired with a Coke at family dinners at Delgado’s or during family taco night. He loved being involved in his children’s lives, including coaching league baseball for both of them. He also had a fondness for the movies, cars and music of the 1950s, including his favorite artist, Frank Sinatra.

Watching sports was one of his favorite pastimes. A lifelong Dodgers fan, he could often be found listening to the game with the familiar sound of Vin Scully’s voice. He loved a little healthy competition, whether it was a tennis match, Thursday night poker or a weekend trip to Las Vegas with family and close friends. More than anything, family and friendship meant the world to Randy, and he cherished reconnecting with old friends at high school reunions.

An accomplished rancher and dedicated family man, his greatest devotion was to the love of his life, Muffy, and her happiness. Anyone who witnessed their relationship knew it was a love for the ages.

He also had a special place in his heart for dogs, always carrying treats in his pocket in case one crossed his path. His family takes comfort in knowing he is reunited with all the dogs he loved so dearly over his life: Bo, Mugs, Moose, Sunny and Lucy, to name a few.

Randy was truly a one-of-a-kind man who meant so much to so many. He spent his final days surrounded by friends and family, enjoying the sunshine and his favorite meals, listening to his favorite music and reminiscing about a lifetime of memories with the people he loved. He will forever be missed.

In Randy’s memory and in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Santa Barbara Humane.  

 

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