Randy Edwards: The Swamp People Star Who Lived and Died by the Bayou

Bayou Sorrel, Louisiana — The quiet town of Bayou Sorrel sits deep in the Louisiana wetlands, where winding waterways and thick cypress trees define both the landscape and the lifestyle. It’s where Randy Edwards was born on August 21, 1983, and where he spent nearly his entire life—until his untimely death on September 15, 2018, at the age of 35, in Plaquemine, Iberville Parish, the very region he called home.

Randy grew up in a family of swampers—people who make their living from the land and water. He was known for his steady hands, deep knowledge of the bayou, and calm demeanor. Millions of viewers came to know him through the hit reality show Swamp People, where he didn’t act or pretend—he just did what he had always done: live off the swamp.

Swamp-Born: A Childhood in Bayou Sorrel

Randy Edwards grew up surrounded by the sounds and smells of the Louisiana swamp. His father, William “Junior” Edwards, was a respected commercial fisherman and alligator hunter, and his mother, Theresa, loved the outdoors and took care of the family.

Randy had three siblings—Willie, Austin, and Letha—and they all grew up learning how to live with nature. They were taught to respect it, survive in it, and depend on it. From a young age, Randy was out checking lines, driving a boat, and helping his family bring in fish and gators to make a living.

Love and Loss in the Bayou

Randy married his childhood sweetheart, Terri, and together they raised four children: Nathan, Randy II, Sierra, and Katelyn. Katelyn passed away when she was young, and those close to Randy say it was a loss that stayed with him forever.

Despite the hardships, Randy was a loving father. He often took his kids out on the water, teaching them about the swamp, just like his dad had done for him. People who knew him describe Randy as quiet but warm, someone who was serious when needed but quick with a joke when things got tough.

A Natural on Camera: Swamp People Years

In 2012, Randy joined the cast of Swamp People on the History Channel. The show followed alligator hunters during Louisiana’s short, intense 30-day hunting season. Along with his brother Willie, Randy appeared from Season 3 through Season 5, giving viewers a glimpse into their everyday work.

Randy wasn’t flashy, but that’s what made him so relatable. He showed patience, skill, and quiet determination. In the episode “Divide to Conquer,” he and Willie were sent out on their own, away from their father Junior. In “Treebreaker 2,” they even created a new treble hook to prove they could succeed on their own.

In “Gates of Hell,” Junior gave them a challenge: catch six gators in one day or give up their boat. Randy and Willie rose to the occasion. Later, in “Young Blood,” the brothers ventured into an area untouched for 40 years—“Gator Heaven.” Their teamwork, trust, and sense of adventure made them a fan-favorite duo.

Randy’s final appearances were in “Blood Brothers” and “Unbreakable Bonds” in 2014. These episodes showed just how strong his bond with his family was and how seriously he took the responsibility of carrying on their traditions.

Stepping Back and Living Simply

After Season 5, Randy quietly left the show. There was no official goodbye—just a return to the life he loved most. Without cameras following him, Randy went back to fishing, hunting, and raising his children in the swamp he knew better than anywhere else.

He still made public appearances now and then, greeting fans at local events and always taking time to chat or sign autographs. Fame didn’t change him. He stayed humble, focused on his family and community.

A Life Cut Short

On September 15, 2018, Randy was driving south on Louisiana Highway 75 when his vehicle veered off the road and hit a utility pole. He was ejected from the car and died at the scene. He was only 35 years old.

The Louisiana State Police later said that impairment may have played a role. His death came as a shock to fans and devastated his family. A few days later, on September 20, Randy was laid to rest, surrounded by those who had known and loved him all his life.

The Bigger Picture

Randy’s death was one of 768 traffic fatalities in Louisiana in 2018, a number that reflected a rise in accidents due to things like speeding, distraction, and impaired driving. It was a reminder that no one—not even someone as experienced as Randy—was immune to life’s sudden tragedies.

In October 2023, a thick “super fog” caused by smoke and moisture led to another deadly crash on Interstate 55 near New Orleans, killing eight and injuring dozens. For many in Louisiana, road safety remains a serious concern.

A Legacy Etched in Water and Memory

Today, Randy’s legacy lives on in his children, his brother Willie (who still appears on Swamp People), and the many fans who admired his courage, humility, and skill. Clips from his time on the show continue to circulate online, often with comments like “he was one of the good ones” or “Randy kept it real.”

He wasn’t just a face on TV—he was a real man from the Louisiana swamp, doing what generations before him had done. His life, filled with hard work and love, touched more people than he ever realized.

A friend once said, “Randy didn’t need to say much. You could see who he was in the way he worked, the way he treated people, and the way he lived.”

How People Remember Randy

Even years after his passing, Randy Edwards continues to be remembered fondly by fans across the country and even around the world. The outpouring of love and condolences from viewers reveals just how deeply he touched people’s lives. Many felt like they knew him, even if they had never met him in person.

Lynnsey Fowler from Batesville, Mississippi, wrote on March 18, 2025:

“I never met Randy but I am a huge fan of his after watching Swamp People. Gone but never forgotten, that’s for sure. Rest easy, Randy!”

Peggy Juarez from Okeechobee, Florida, wrote on March 2, 2025:

“Mr. & Mrs. Edwards & Family, We are watching an episode with Randy in it right now! We are so sorry for your loss. It has been going on 7 years, but just know that Randy has and will never be forgotten!! Much Love to all of you!”

CJ & Justin Watts from North Carolina, wrote on January 15, 2024:

“We never got the chance to meet Randy. We still watch reruns of Swamp People with him in it. Sending lots of love to his family and friends.”

Mataya Gardiner from Maine, shared on June 3, 2023:

“I never got a chance to meet Randy because I am an avid fan of Swamp People. I just wanted to express my thoughts of how deeply I’m sorry for your family’s loss. From what I’ve seen on TV, he was a sweetheart. Rest in peace, Randy.”

Derrick Taylor from New Jersey, offered his thoughts on May 5, 2023:

“Thinking of you all at this time. God bless.”

Wanda Berry from Monticello, Georgia, wrote on September 19, 2018:

“Go rest high on that mountain Son, your work on earth is done. Go to heaven a-shoutin’. Love for the Father and the Son. RIP. You will be missed on this earth!! Prayers for Peace and Healing for the Family!!!”

Miriam Berry from Tasmania, Australia, wrote:

“To the Edwards family, my sincere condolences on the passing of Randy, such a star on Swamp People. Loved watching him. Such a shock to hear of his passing. Thinking of you all at this sad time.”

The Howells from Grand Isle, Louisiana, wrote:

“Our deepest condolences to the family. May God bring you all mighty comfort, peace, and understanding.”

From small towns in Texas to cities in Canada, and as far as Australia, messages continue to pour in. Some spoke of admiration, others of the comfort they felt watching Randy and his family, and many shared personal stories of loss and empathy.

While Randy may be gone, the memory of his kind heart, adventurous spirit, and love for his family lives on through the voices of fans who continue to celebrate his legacy.

If you have a message or memory to share about Randy Edwards, consider contributing to the community tributes online. His story continues through every person he inspired.