Vera W. Randall passed away peacefully on April 10, 2025, in Ozark, Missouri. She was born on September 29, 1942, in Hilderbrand, Missouri, to Hugo F. Finger and Caroline W. (Grosse) Finger. Growing up in the heartland, Vera’s early years laid the foundation for a life devoted to education, personal growth, and community service.

Her educational journey began at Immanuel Lutheran School and continued at Perryville High School in Perryville, Missouri. During her sophomore year, she transferred to Fayette High School in Iowa, where her passion for learning truly began to flourish. That passion led her to pursue a bachelor’s degree in Physical Education with a focus on Supervision, which further deepened her commitment to teaching. Vera later earned her master’s degree from the University of Northern Colorado in Greeley, equipping her with the knowledge and skills that would define her 25-year career in education.

In 1973, Vera began teaching physical education at Maquoketa Junior High. She quickly became a beloved figure at the school, not only as a teacher but also as a coach for girls’ basketball, a scoreboard operator for wrestling and basketball games, and a chaperone for the Cardinalettes and cheerleaders.

Outside the classroom, Vera embraced a vibrant and fulfilling life. She was active in 4-H, welcomed a foreign exchange student from Germany into her home, and enjoyed hosting bridge club gatherings. After retiring in 1998, she remained deeply involved in her community through organizations such as the Optimist Club, Lions Club, and by volunteering with the Jackson County Historical Society.

Even after relocating from Maquoketa to Ozark, Missouri, to be closer to her daughter’s family, Vera continued her commitment to service. She became active once again in the Optimist and Lions Clubs and played a key role in launching the homebound book delivery program through the Christian County Library. In every role she undertook—educator, mentor, and engaged community member—Vera touched lives and left a lasting legacy.

Vera had a deep sense of wanderlust and was a passionate world traveler. She rode a motorcycle to Alaska, bicycled through ten European countries, and visited Russia, Croatia, Greece, Turkey, and all 48 contiguous U.S. states. She cherished exploring new cultures and believed in the power of curiosity. Vera often encouraged others to keep an open mind, continue learning, read often, and always keep moving forward.

She is survived by her daughter, Doreen (Randall) Algeo of Ozark, Missouri; her grandchildren, Samuel and Sydney Algeo; and her sister, Delores McFadd. She was preceded in death by her parents and her siblings: Claiborne, Karl, Otto, Norman, Arlen, and Lawrence Finger, as well as her sister Frieda Gruenwald.

A memorial service celebrating Vera’s life will be held at 11:30 a.m. on Monday, April 28, 2025, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa. A gathering of family and friends will follow from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. in “The Bistro” at Carson Celebration of Life Center. Cremation rites have been accorded.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be made in Vera’s name to the Jackson County Historical Society.

Online Condolences may be left at www.CarsonAndSon.com.