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YOUNGSTOWN - Randall A. "Duke" Wellington passed away on Friday, Oct. 16, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of dedicated public service, leadership and devotion to his family and community.
Duke was born on Feb. 1, 1933, in Youngstown, the son of George and Carrie Wellington. A lifelong resident of Youngstown, he spent nearly all his life serving the community he called home, with the exception of his military service during the Korean War.
Following his graduation from South High School, Duke proudly served in the United States Army as a military police sergeant during the Korean War, earning the Purple Heart for his service. His commitment to protecting and serving others continued long after his military service ended.
Duke pursued higher education at Youngstown State University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Law Enforcement Administration. He was recognized as the university’s first graduate in that field and was later honored as a Distinguished Alumnus for his contributions to criminal justice and law enforcement. He furthered his professional education through the FBI National Academy, the U.S. Secret Service Diplomatic Protection School, the FBI Law Enforcement Executive School, and the Lincoln Zonn Academy of Polygraph.
Duke began his career with the Youngstown Police Department on Jan. 1, 1957, as a patrolman and steadily advanced through the ranks, serving as sergeant, lieutenant, captain and ultimately chief of police. Appointed chief in 1984, he led the department during a challenging period in the city’s history. Throughout his career, he became known as a soft-spoken but firm leader who believed in discipline, integrity and the importance of public service.
After decades with the Youngstown Police Department, Duke continued his commitment to public safety as Mahoning County Sheriff. He assumed the position on August 28, 1999, and served until his retirement in January 2013. During his tenure, he introduced and supported several community and law-enforcement initiatives, including a Senior Citizens Watch Program, a Day-Reporting Program that allowed certain offenders to perform community service, a Reserve Deputy Program, an Underwater Diving Team, a Crisis Response Team, a Hostage Negotiations Team and a Youth Explorer’s Unit. These initiatives reflected his dedication to public safety, community involvement and finding practical ways to serve the people of Mahoning County.
In recognition of his distinguished career, his service was honored in the Congressional Record in January 2013, acknowledging his lifelong devotion to protecting and serving the citizens of Youngstown and Mahoning County. His career spanned more than five decades in law enforcement, leaving a lasting mark on the community he faithfully served.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Duke's family remained an important part of his life. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Delores Wellington, whom he married on Sept. 5, 1959; his parents, George and Carrie Wellington; and his brothers, Donald and George.
He leaves to cherish his memory his son, Dennis James Wellington, and daughter-in-law, Georgi; his grandchildren, Theresa (Donald), Elizabeth (Thomas) and Sarah (Michael); his great-grandchildren, Lisa Marie Weaver (Chad), Desiree Thing (James -deceased), George Savoie and June Savoie; his great-great-grandchildren, Olivia Thing and Elijah Thing. He is also survived by numerous cousins, nieces, nephews and other loved ones who will miss him dearly.
Randall A. Wellington will be remembered for his unwavering commitment to public service. His strong Catholic faith, which carried him through some of his most difficult times, his dedication to the safety and well-being of his community, and the enduring legacy he leaves behind. His life reflected a deep sense of duty, leadership and service to others. He served his community with distinction, and his contributions to the Mahoning Valley will not be forgotten. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, former colleagues and all those whose lives he touched throughout his remarkable life.
The Wellington family would like to send a special thanks to Ohio Living Hospice and to the owners and staff of Ashley Circle Nursing Home.
Randall's family requests material tributes, to be given in his memory, to the Ursulines Sisters of Youngstown, 4250 Sheilds Road, Canfield, OH 44406.
Family and friends may call from 2 to 5 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 25, 2026, at the Fox Funeral Home in Boardman.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be 11 a.m. Monday, Oct. 26, 2026, at St. Mary Magdalene Parish, St. Christine Church, 3165 S. Schenley Ave., Youngstown, celebrated by the Rev. Edward P. Noga.
Interment will be held at Calvary Cemetery with military honors; he will be laid to rest next to his wife.
Arrangements have been entrusted to the Edward J. Fox & Sons Funeral Home, 4700 Market St., Boardman.
Family and friends may visit www.foxfuneralhome.org to view this obituary and to give condolences to the Wellington family.
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