Clarence “Junior” Castle, 80, passed away peacefully at his home on Friday, June 19, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.
Born on December 7, 1945, in Catlettsburg, Kentucky, Junior was the son of the late Clarence E. Castle and Vergie (Hickman) Castle. He lived a life defined by service, patriotism, devotion to family, and unwavering love for his country.
Junior proudly served in the United States Army and the Army National Guard, dedicating 35 years of honorable service to the nation he loved so deeply. Throughout his distinguished military career, he served during the Vietnam War, and during Desert Storm, and many deployments including Operation Homeland Security. His commitment to duty, honor, and country was evident to all who knew him. Many would say he was one of the most patriotic people they had ever met.
Beyond his military service, Junior cherished his family above all else. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend whose love and guidance will be deeply missed. He enjoyed traveling, cheering on sports, and keeping up with current events, especially through FOX News. Whether sharing stories from his travels, discussing UK basketball, or reflecting on his years of military service, Junior left a lasting impression on everyone he met.
He is survived by his loving wife, Jeanna of South Webster; his sons, Rick (Gary) Castle of Nashville, Tennessee, Chris Castle of Charleston, South Carolina, and Danny (Tiffany) Castle of Columbus, Ohio; his daughters, Michelle (Chuck) Smith of Kitts Hill, Ohio, and Brandi Castle of Oak Hill, Ohio; his brother, Tony (Sue) Castle of Ashland, Kentucky; and his cherished grandchildren, Jayson Smith, Allison Castle, Ellie Castle, and Crew Castle.
In addition to his parents, Junior was preceded in death by his sisters, Patty Castle, and Jewell Castle; his beloved grandson, Andrew Castle; Mother-in-law, Bonnigene Mullen and his father-in-law, Raymond Mullen, who was also his best friend.
Junior’s legacy of service, strength, patriotism, and love for family will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. His family takes comfort in knowing that his life was one of purpose, sacrifice, and dedication to the values he held dear.
Graveside Military Honors Service will take place Tuesday, June 23, 2026, 2:00 PM, Kentucky Veterans Cemetery Northeast, 110 Veterans Memorial Drive, Grayson, KY with Military Honors by American Legion Post 93, Kenova, WV. Visitation will be Tuesday, June 23, 2026, 10:30 AM- 12:30 PM at D.W. SWICK & SON FUNERAL AND CREMATION SERVICES in South Webster.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation (t2t.org), honoring Junior’s lifelong commitment to serving and supporting those who serve our nation.
Online memories and condolences may be shared at DWSwickFuneralHome.com
