- Visitation
Tuesday, January 9, 2024
4:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Wednesday, January 10, 2024
11:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Kassly-Meridith Funeral Home in Collinsville, IL
- Service
Wednesday, January 10, 2024
12:00 PM
Kassly-Meridith Funeral Home in Collinsville, IL
- Full Obituary
Letha L. Castelli, 86, of Collinsville, IL, passed away Wednesday, January 3, 2024, peacefully at her home, surrounded by her family.
She was born on March 16, 1937, in Paragould, AR, to Richard and Iva (nee Crockett) Finley. On February 23, 1957, she married the love of her life, John J. Castelli, Jr., in Fairmont City, IL. In her youth, Letha attended Lansdowne Junior High, then graduated from East St. Louis High School in East St. Louis, IL. She was an active member of Central Baptist Church in St. Jacob, IL.
Letha was a devoted St. Louis Cardinals fan, and her passion for the team was unparalleled. Her home was a shrine to the Cardinals, adorned with an impressive collection of memorabilia that showcased her unwavering loyalty. She never missed a game, diligently watching each one and analyzing the replays with a keen eye. Letha's love for the Cardinals extended beyond her living room; she had attended numerous games and spring training sessions, creating cherished moments that added to her rich tapestry of life.
In addition to her sports enthusiasm, Letha was a culinary maestro, delighting her family and friends with her exceptional cooking skills. Her fried chicken was legendary, and her cornbread and pigs in a blanket were simply divine. Whether it was a holiday feast or a simple family gathering, Letha's kitchen was the heart of the home, filled with the aroma of delicious meals and the warmth of her love.
Letha had a few culinary preferences of her own, with a particular fondness for Diet Pepsi and onions. These simple pleasures brought her joy and comfort throughout her life.
Beyond her culinary talents and sports passion, Letha was the cornerstone and matriarch of her family, the glue that bound generations together. Her nurturing spirit, selflessness, and boundless love made her the best mother, and she reveled in doting on her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and even great-great-grandchildren. Her door was always open, and her heart even more so, as she treated everyone with the same level of love and kindness, never meeting a stranger but only making new friends.
Letha's strength and resilience were evident in her triumph over breast cancer, a battle she faced with courage and grace. Her journey inspired those around her and served as a testament to her indomitable spirit. In every sense, Letha embodied love and care. Her impact on the lives of those who knew her is immeasurable, and her memory will forever be etched in our hearts.
She is preceded in death by her parents, Richard and Iva Finley; grandson, Johnny Castelli; infant great-granddaughter, Margaret; and 11 siblings.
Letha is survived by her loving husband of 66 years, John J. Castelli, Jr.; children, John J. (Peggy) Castelli, III, Richard “Mike” (Kerri) Castelli, Debbie (Jerry) Carver, Gary (Kim) Castelli, Greg (Nancy) Castelli, Mary Castelli-Cates; grandchildren, Erin, Ronnie, Christian, Kristi, Michael, Eric, Tara, Ashley, Josh, Nikki, Caitlyn, Paige, Daniel, Joseph; great-grandchildren, Jacob, Anya, Sydney, Madison, Maxwell, Maecynn, Maeghan, Malorie, Leo, Evan, Seth, Kailey, Lana, Chloe, Matthew, Sebby, Gus, Alex, Gabe, Kameron, Kendall, Lucas, Jackson, Lucas, Nora, Nylah, Nevaeh, Evelyn, Eli, Sora, Marcy; great-great-grandchildren, Lennox, Everett, Asher, Kobe, Milo, Greyson; sister, Christine (Rudy) Bleier; numerous nieces, nephews, and many loving friends.
Memorials may be made to HSHS Hospice or St. Elizabeth’s Hospital.
Visitation: Tuesday, January 9, 2024, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM, and Wednesday, January 10, 2024, from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM, at Kassly-Meridith Funeral Home in Collinsville, IL.
Service: Wednesday, January 10, 2024, 12:00 PM, Kassly-Meridith Funeral Home, Collinsville, IL.
Clergy: Pastor Brian Crocker
Interment: Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery, St. Louis, MO.
Kassly-Meridith Funeral Home, Collinsville, IL.
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