James William Castleberry

On Wednesday, January 11, 2023, James William Castleberry passed away at the age of 40.  His eyes closed for a final time in the early morning hours and God called him home.

James was born on November 8, 1982 to Terry and Freda Castleberry in Fort Polk, Louisiana.  From a young boy to an adult, James kept his eyes open to the world.  As a child, he put his hands to frequent use collecting, exploring, making art and writing poetry.  Crafting and building served him later when he made his living as a skilled carpenter.  James had a knack for identifying hidden potential, turning trash into treasure, and giving objects a new purpose.  This filled his life with possibilities limited only by his imagination.  James had a kind spirit and always saw the best in those around him.  He freely gave the gift of time and friendship to those in need.

He was preceded in death by his father, Terry Ray Castleberry; his grandparents, James William Castleberry and Lennie Castleberry; and his Aunt Janet Willey.

He is survived by his parents, Freda and Robert Jones; his grandmother, Oleta Gilbert; his elder sister, Tana Castleberry-Blandford and her husband, David; his younger sister, Tabitha Goings and her husband, Paul; his brother, Jeffrey Jones and his wife, Katherine and family;  his brother, Brandon Jones and his family; his niece, Taylor McGinnis and her husband, Matt; his cousins, Beth Belch and Richard Willey; and his great niece and nephew, Selah and Shepherd.

James’ life was cut short and the loss leaves behind sorrow and grief, but just like he would have done, we can look deeper to find a joy hidden beneath the tears.  We can smile, knowing that while James is absent from the body, he lives on now and forever, present with the Lord.

His funeral service will be held at 11:00 AM on Monday, January 16, 2023 in the Johnson Funeral Home of Moss Bluff Chapel.  Larry Davis will officiate.  Visitation will be at the funeral home on Monday morning from 9:00 AM until the start of the service at 11:00 AM.  Burial will be at 10:00 AM on Thursday, January 19, 2023 in Beggs Cemetery, located in Beggs, Oklahoma under the direction of McClendon-Winters Funeral Home.