Essie Casteel was born on January 01, 1941 in Marietta, Texas. He was the third child of seven and the first son born to the late Brevon and Christine (Hall) Casteel. In 1959, Essie graduated from Burns High School, in Hooks, Texas.

Essie met his sweetheart Emma Gene Austin and they united in marriage on April 21, 1966. In this union, they were blessed with two children; Reginald DeWayne Austin and DeShun LeJeana Casteel.

He retired from Cooper Tires after 33 faithful and dedicated years of employment. During his retirement, he was proud of his garden and enjoyed cooking. For many years, Essie served as a Deacon and long-standing member of Antioch Baptist Church, in New Boston, Texas.

He leaves to honor and cherish his wife; Emma Gene of 57 years, son Reginald DeWayne Austin (New Boston), brother Lonzia Casteel (Julia) (Chicago, Il), sister Marie Credit (Texarkana, TX), and a host of family and friends.

Essie was proceeded in death by his parents; Brevon and Christine Casteel, daughter DeShun LeJeana Casteel, and four of his seven siblings.

Essie fought a good fight, he was called home to be with the Lord on Thursday, March 30, 2023.