We were saddened to recently learn of the passing of Randy Lively, and as 2019 closes we take a moment to recognize his life and salute his service to our industry.

Born Howard Randolph Lively on November 24, 1934, Randy served as a leader in the consumer-credit industry for almost half a century, including more than a decade as the American Financial Services Association’s President and Chief Executive Officer.

Randy was born in Atlanta, Georgia, grew up in Slidell, Louisiana, and attended Louisiana State University before enlisting in the U.S. Army and serving overseas.

In 1960 Randy launched his career in the financial-services industry with what would be a more than 20-year tenure with Sears, Roebuck & Co.’s Credit Operations. He oversaw operations in two of Sears’ regions and served as the company’s head of public affairs, representing Sears in Congress on all issues pertaining to credit.

In 1981 Randy joined Zale Corp., the national retail jeweler based in Irving, TX., as President of Jewelers Financial Services, Inc., the firm’s captive finance company.

Randy joined AFSA as President and CEO on October 1, 1994. Under Randy’s leadership, AFSA expanded outreach and elevated its profile. He cultivated partnerships with key government agencies, helped create voluntary industry standards on consumer credit issues, and served in leadership roles for nationally recognized coalitions.

Among Randy’s successes with AFSA were his revitalization and expansion of the AFSA Education Foundation, joining forces with former Ford Credit chairman Bill Odom to create the Jump$tart Coalition for Personal Financial Literacy, and establishing the association’s state government relations department.

These efforts helped build the inroads AFSA has made both with state public policy officials, but also our ability to connect with policymakers and third-party stakeholders via our commitment to financial education and literacy. For these successes and for his leadership of AFSA, he was awarded AFSA’s Distinguished Service Award in 2003.

Randy retired to North Carolina where he enjoyed time on his boat, the “Step Lively,” and spending time with his children and grandchildren.

Randy understood that public affairs and public policy must extend beyond Washington, that consumer credit issues needed to engage consumers. The successes of the state organization and the growth of the AFSA Education Foundation confirm Randy’s vision and serve as a testament to his leadership and vision for our organization.