Jack Wayne Caskey

Jack Wayne Caskey, 83, passed away on February 22, 2025, in Lake Charles. He lived a life passionately devoted to faith, justice, and family. Jack’s legacy lives on through the countless lives he enriched and inspired. 

Jack was born on June 10, 1941, in Urania, Louisiana. From an early age, his sharp mind and compassionate heart set him apart. He graduated from DeQuincy High School in 1959, where he played on the football team, displaying the same perseverance that would later define his legal career.

Jack pursued his undergraduate education at Louisiana State University. He then continued at LSU Law School, overcoming academic rigor with steady determination—one exam at a time. A proud member of Phi Alpha Delta international legal fraternity and the Student Bar Association, it was not until years later that he could lift his head and see clearly the life he had built, celebrating holidays surrounded by family and faith. Jack’s education laid the foundation for a remarkable legal career. 

He was an esteemed member of the Louisiana State and Southwest Louisiana Bar Associations, practicing law for 57 years. Jack’s distinguished legal career, marked by his courage, conviction, and exceptional legal skill, began in 1967 following his graduation from LSU Law School. He first served as a law clerk for Louisiana’s Second Circuit Court of Appeal before moving to Lake Charles, where he served passionately as an Assistant District Attorney. Jack later entered private practice, partnering with Jack Rodgers, then Nick Pizzolatto, and ultimately establishing himself as a respected solo practitioner. In the 1970s, one of Jack’s cases was brought before the United States Supreme Court, earning a historic victory and demonstrating his influence and impact in the legal field. 

From September 1982 to December 1984, Jack honorably served as Lake Charles City Court Judge, stepping down only to run for Calcasieu Parish District Attorney. He held the rare distinction of being one of only three attorneys approved by the Louisiana Supreme Court to sit Ad Hoc in Lake Charles City Court. Retired Judge John Hood reflected warmly, “Jack was a reliable, generous member of our Court who devoted many hours to lend legal assistance to those who couldn’t afford it. He will truly be missed.” Judge Caskey was admired equally for his wisdom and empathy. He served honorably with thoughtful consideration for every individual who came before him. 

Jack was especially devoted to supporting law enforcement, proudly serving as legal counsel for the Lake Charles Police Officers Association from 1997–2007. His passion for law enforcement was deeply personal, as two of his children proudly wore the badge. Jack understood firsthand the sacrifices officers made to protect their communities, and he selflessly stood by them, answering their calls day or night without ever accepting compensation. He became their steady presence in moments of crisis, offering reassurance and strength. His advocacy—fierce yet gentle—was always rooted in dignity and respect. In recognition of his zealous dedication, he was honored as “Citizen of the Year” by the Lake Charles Police in 2003.

For Jack, practicing law was never about recognition or personal gain. Instead, driven by his innate generosity, he tirelessly championed those unable to advocate for themselves. Jack was recognized by the Southwest Louisiana Bar Association for his extensive and generous Pro Bono service He received the Indigent Defenders Award, which honored his lifelong dedication to those in need and reflected his commitment to justice and humanity. However, he measured success not in accolades but by the lives he touched and the justice he secured. His legacy endures through countless individuals whose paths he illuminated with integrity and kindness. 

Beyond his profession, Jack had a lifelong passion for sports. Still, nothing brought him greater joy than watching his children and grandchildren compete. Whether football, baseball, volleyball, track, cheerleading, or dance, he never missed a game, meet, or performance. With his trusty video camera in hand, Jack captured every moment—both big and small—that mattered deeply to his family. Rain or shine, near or far, he was always in the stands, proudly cheering them on. His presence at each event and dedication to preserving these memories were beautiful reflections of his boundless love and devotion to his family.

Jack’s extraordinary compassion profoundly influenced his role as a father. He adored his children with unshakable pride and devotion, always providing them with security, love, and guidance. To each of his children, he was more than a father—he was a trusted friend, a tireless advocate, and an endless source of strength. Whether celebrating victories, supporting them through challenges, or simply spending a quiet moment together, Jack ensured every child felt cherished, understood, and unconditionally loved.

His thoughtful nature touched everyone he encountered, but none felt this more deeply than his beloved wife, Karole, who was the greatest recipient of his endless kindness, care, and affection. Whether through spontaneous messages of encouragement or quiet gestures of gratitude and reassurance, Jack had a remarkable gift for sensing when someone needed comfort or support. He consistently reached out, providing heartfelt affirmation precisely when it mattered most. 

Jack was an active member of First Pentecostal Church. Faith was more than belief for him—it was the foundation for a life defined by action, compassion, and unwavering advocacy. To family and friends, Jack was a steadfast presence, fiercely loyal, and endlessly generous. His guidance and love knew no bounds, leaving a profound and lasting impact on everyone whose life he touched. Jack’s steadfast faith defined him. He lived each day anchored by the certainty of God’s grace. There is comfort in knowing he has now been welcomed lovingly into the embrace of Jesus, leaving behind a legacy rich with kindness, generosity, and immeasurable love.

Jack is survived by his loving wife of 41 years, Karole Khoury Caskey; his children, Jack Wayne Caskey Jr. and wife Shelly, Ellen Caskey Galbreath and husband Russell, Malcolm Philip Kraus III, Michael Ray Kraus and wife Merzie, and Mark Alan Kraus and Martha Briley; and his cherished grandchildren, Nicholas Ryan Kraus and Emily, Laken Diamond Erck and husband Eliot, Khoury Michael Kraus and wife Jaquelyn, Mackenzie Storm Kraus, Madeline Claire Kraus, Olivia Kraus Stringer and husband Alexander, and Caroline Kay Kraus. His legacy will continue to be carried forward by his great-grandchildren, Kaylie Isabella Kraus, Hudson Alexander Stringer, and Vivienne Rose Kraus.

Jack is preceded in death by his parents, Leon C. and Katherine Flynt Caskey, and sister, Ora Lue Caskey. He is now peacefully reunited in heaven with his beloved son, Louis Henry Caskey, whose presence he deeply missed and whose memory he lovingly carried throughout his life.

Pallbearers are Nicholas Kraus, Khoury Kraus, Mike “Moon” Weaver, Richard Harrell, Gerard Mack, and Ed Bickham. Honorary pallbearers are Nugget Caskey and Huey Caskey.  

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, February 26, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at First Pentecostal Church, 320 Bunker Road, Lake Charles, Louisiana. The funeral service will immediately follow at the church from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. Friends, family, and all who were touched by Jack’s life are invited to gather in remembrance and celebration of his enduring legacy. Burial to follow at Consolata Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to First Pentecostal Church.