Gerrald Casteel (11-15-20)

Gerrald Wayne Casteel was born March 22, 1946, in Wayne County, the son of the late James “Jim” and Reba Casteel.

Following his graduation from Wayne County High School, Mr. Casteel entered the United States Marine Corps. He served six years and completed multiple tours of duty in Vietnam from 1966 to 1972, attaining the rank of Sergeant.

After returning to the states, Mr. Casteel spent a short time in Texas before returning to Hardin County. He worked as a truck driver for Pepsi-Cola, Cardinal Transportation, Aqua Glass and Tom Bigbee before retiring. Deer hunting, cooking and woodworking were his favorite activities. Mr. Casteel was a member of Mt. Sharon Presbyterian Church.

Mr. Casteel departed this life on Sunday, Nov. 15, at his home in Stantonville, at the age of 74 years, 7 months and 24 days.

He is survived by wife Shirley Creekmore Pickens Casteel; two daughters, Terri Casteel Pope and husband Chris, and Melissa Casteel; a son, Jerry Casteel and wife Rebekah; eight grandchildren, Phillip Pope and wife Samantha, Steven Pope, Toby Pickens, Dillon Pickens, Kelsey Pickens, Bailey Casteel, James Casteel and Lannie Casteel; and five great-grandchildren, Carson Pope, Tucker Pope, Bentley Stephens, Easton Miller and Mason McDonald; two stepdaughters, Sherry Pickens Sweat and husband Steve and Darlene Pickens Mancil and husband Mark; stepson, Roger Pickens; three step grandchildren; two brothers, Gary Don Casteel and wife Cathy and Jimmy Casteel and wife Cathy; and many other family and friends.

In addition to his parents, Mr. Casteel was preceded in death by his first wife, Betty Joyce Wilkerson Casteel; brothers, Jonny Casteel, James Thomas “Bud” Casteel and Bill Casteel; and one sister, Reba Nell Casteel.