Obituaries » Rear Admiral Roy James Casto, USCG (Ret.)
Rear Admiral Roy James Casto, USCG (Ret.)
Rear Admiral Roy James Casto, USCG (Ret.), 74, of Lynchburg, passed away on July 31, 2023 surrounded by his loving family. He was born on September 7, 1948 to the late Raymond and Mary Casto.
In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his brother, Ronald Casto and dear friends and fellow cancer fighters Wendi Mitchell and Debby Black.
Roy dedicated 36 years to the U.S. Coast Guard and rose through the ranks, earning specialties in engineering and financial management as well as serving in challenging operational assignments. Roy retired in 2003 as a Rear Admiral.
During his retirement, you could find him writing plays, directing murder mysteries, researching his family’s ancestry and writing and publishing two genealogy books. He enjoyed growing a large garden of produce that he took pride in sharing with others. He could also be found in the family deli helping in many ways while interacting with the community.
Roy is survived by his wife of 53 years, Nancy Casto; children, Suzanne Bondurant (Joseph) and Brian Casto; grandchildren, Emilee Bondurant, Brianna Bondurant, James Casto (Peggy), and Bailey Casto; great grandchild, Colby Casto; his best friend of 58 years, Thomas Rummel; and many other loving family members and friends.
Nancy and Suzanne would like to thank the staff and Dr. Gorsch at Alan Pearson Cancer Center for the amazing and loving care provided over his 5 year battle.
A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, August 6, 2023 at 2:00 p.m. at Tharp Funeral Home, Lynchburg. The family will receive friends from 12:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. Interment will be held at a later date in the Arlington National Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers donations can be made in Roy’s honor to the Alan Pearson Cancer Center, Lynchburg, Va. or St. Jude’s Cancer Research Hospital.
Tharp Funeral Home & Crematory, Lynchburg, is assisting the family.
Condolences & Tributes
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Just finished watching the beautiful service. I will miss Roy, but Luffy and I will still look forward our visits with you. I feel blessed to have gotten to know your family. You are all very special/
Posted by Robin Warner on August 6, 2023
To Nancy and the entire Casto family, I offer my condolences and prayers. I had the pleasure of meeting Roy and the family when they had just purchased their house in Amherst County. When we both learned that we had served in the Coast Guard, we immediately began swapping stories of where we'd been and what we saw along the way. Every time Laurie and I came to "the land" we'd stop by and visit. I'll always remember the music, stories, jokes and shared laughter. Thank you, Roy, for the happiness you brought to mine and Laurie's life. Semper Paratus
Posted by Mark Braunstein on August 5, 2023
Roy singing and telling us the backstory of "American Pie."
Posted by Mark Braunstein on August 5, 2023
Holiday Hoops
Posted by Jim Mathieu on August 5, 2023
Nancy and family, I had the honor of serving with Roy in the front office when he was the EA to ADM Kramek and VADM Herr. Roy’s a true shipmate, gentleman and experienced officer, always with a calm and pleasing voice. Lori and I express our deepest condolences to you and your blessed family. Roy made working in the front office an incredible career experience. Jim Rendon and I had hourly interactions with Roy from sunrise to sunset ensuring the front office worked smoothly and if there were any hiccups, Roy made sure it was transparent to the Vice and Commandant—Roy always had the right answers. The attached picture is from ADM & Mrs Kramek’s annual Christmas party at Quarters 1. We had our holiday hoops on! May Roy’s memories bring you and your family comfort and his soul rest in paradise! Lori & Jim Mathieu
Posted by Jim Mathieu on August 5, 2023
In 1972 Roy was my first CO on South Caicos LORSTA. He was the best officer I ever met in the Coast Guard as well as a great person. It was a privilege to have served with him. Thanks to Dave Leslie who got us reconnected recently after 50 years of living our separate lives. My thoughts and prayers go out to your family.
Posted by Harold Stewart on August 5, 2023
This was taken at my first duty station, South Caicos LORSTA, where Roy was my CO and a good friend
Posted by Harold Stewart on August 5, 2023
I just recently reconnected with Roy after serving with him 50 years ago on Isolated Duty early in his Coast Guard career. We got a chance to reminisce about those days and the antics that a bunch of guys in their 20’s could get up to. Roy was a great “Skipper” to have served with, and I am sorry that I didn’t keep in touch in the intervening years. My deepest condolences to Nancy and the rest of his family.
Posted by David Leslie on August 5, 2023
To the Family, Betty Sue and I would like to express our deepest condolences to you all for the loss of your husband, father, and grandfather. He was a wonderful man. I enjoyed my time with him as I was building their home. May your love for him and each other along with your memories bring comfort to you during this time and in the days ahead. God be with you all!
Posted by Lee Bryant on August 3, 2023
Suzanne and family , I am so sorry to hear of your loss . I’m keeping all of you in my thoughts and prayers at this difficult time
Posted by Debbie Higginbotham on August 3, 2023
Rest in peace Roy. Cheers with a glass of Cabernet and a cigar as you and I did many Fridays after work in New Orleans. Cheers to the countless personal and professional advices I received from you. Cheers to the influence you had in me becoming the man, father, husband, professional I am today. Cheers to 22 years of friendship. Most of all, cheers to you being pain free and watching over your family specially Nancy! Samper Paratus!
Posted by Edwin Villarrubia on August 3, 2023
Nancy and family, Dale and I offer our condolences . As cousins of Jean and Allen, we felt privileged to spend time with you two and visit in your home. We enjoyed Roy's friendliness, his sense of humor and his love for others. May you have peace in your memories.
Posted by Lois Webber on August 2, 2023
Rest in peace Roy in the eternal arms of your God. May God help your family during this time of mourning. Until we meet again ….
Posted by Larry Lanier on August 2, 2023
Rest in peace Roy in the eternal arms of your God. May God help your family during this time of mourning. Until we meet again ….
Posted by Larry Lanier on August 2, 2023
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