Mordine LaRuth Caston, lovingly known as “Mama Sugar,” was born in Marietta, Texas, to Burlee and Annie Lee Casteel Harvey. As the firstborn of ten children, she was a precious blessing to her parents and was affectionately nicknamed “Sugarfoot.” From an early age, Mordine embraced the values of hard work, faith, and perseverance that would guide her throughout her life.

Growing up, she worked alongside her family on their farm and learned the importance of dedication and responsibility. She attended Floyd Valley Elementary School in Marietta, Texas, and later graduated from Dunbar High School in Texarkana, Texas. She continued her education at Bishop Baptist College in Marshall, Texas.

During her high school years, Mordine developed a love for basketball and became the starting Point Guard on the girls’ basketball team, helping to lead the team to several successful seasons. Her passion for the sport continued throughout her life. She became a devoted fan of the NBA’s Chicago Bulls and at one time even held season tickets, rarely missing a home game. She faithfully followed the team’s schedule and enjoyed watching nearly every Bulls game. Alongside her goddaughter, Nattie Scott, she kept up with players, coaches, and team statistics with great enthusiasm.

Life’s changing circumstances led Mordine to leave Texas at the young age of 18 in pursuit of greater opportunities and a brighter future. With courage, determination, and faith, she established a new life for herself. Her journey reflected the promise found in Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV): “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

In 1948, “Sugar” moved to the Chicago area and made her home in Maywood, Illinois. There, she raised her three children, Willie Delores “Lois,” Charles, and Jeanette, in the family home on the 100 block of 14th Avenue. She was well known for her love for her family and her fondness for driving a Cadillac. As the eldest of ten siblings, Mordine’s home was always open to family members and loved ones, offering comfort, support, and hospitality whenever needed.

Mordine began her career at Oak Park Hospital before accepting employment at a laundromat in Elmwood Park, Illinois. Her exceptional work ethic and reliability earned the trust of the owner, who placed her in charge of a major laundry contract with M&M/Mars Candy Company in Oak Park. As the lead contact person for this important account, she managed the company’s large daily orders with excellence and precision for several years. Her dedication, professionalism, and dependability earned her the respect and appreciation of both her employer and the Mars Company. When the laundry business eventually declined, Mars recognized Mordine’s talents and offered her a position with the company. She faithfully served there for more than 35 years until her retirement. During her tenure, she was promoted and trained as a line technician, helping produce the iconic candy products enjoyed by many. Mordine also assisted numerous friends and family members in securing employment at Mars, creating opportunities for others to succeed.

Through hard work, perseverance, and God’s favor, Mordine was able to provide for and support her family. Her mother and father along with all siblings, except for one, lived with her until they established their own careers and started families for themselves. Her generosity, sacrifice, and commitment to family left a lasting legacy that continues to inspire those who knew and loved her. Mordine honored her mother and father throughout her life, a blessing reflected in the long, healthy, and fulfilling years God graciously granted her.

Mordine accepted Christ at an early age and was baptized at Floyd Valley Baptist Church in Marietta, Texas.after relocating to Illinois, she joined Second Baptist Church in Maywood in 1949, where she faithfully worshipped and served for many years. As a dedicated member of the Usher Board, she warmly welcomed worshippers and faithfully carried out her duties until her health began to decline. Mordine deeply cherished her fellow ushers and the friendships she cultivated through her years of service. She took great pride in the Second Baptist Usher Board and considered it a blessing to serve alongside many devoted men and women of faith. Through the years, she formed lasting bonds and treasured the fellowship shared with her church family. One of the scriptures that reflected her spirit of service was Psalm 84:10 (NIV): “Better is one day in your courts than a thousand elsewhere; I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God than dwell in the tents of the wicked.” Mordine believed that humbly serving and faithfully guarding the entrance to God’s house was a profound honor and privilege. This commitment to service became one of her personal testimonies and a reflection of her devotion to Christ. Mordine also found great comfort and inspiration in gospel music. One of her favorite songs was Your Grace and Mercy by the Mississippi Mass Choir. She would often sit quietly and listen to its powerful message, reflecting on God’s faithfulness, grace, and mercy throughout her life. The song beautifully expressed her gratitude for the countless ways God had sustained, protected, and blessed her over the years.

Mordine was considered the Matriarch of the Harvey family. Her home was always open, welcoming family and friends with love, laughter, and a good meal. Each summer, she invited her children and grandchildren to gather for a backyard barbecue. As the family grew and more relatives joined in the celebration, the simple cookout evolved into a cherished tradition. What began as a small family gathering became the foundation of the Annual Harvey Family Picnic, a beloved event that has united generations of family for more than 41 years. It simply wasn’t a Harvey Family Picnic until you saw Mama Sugar standing at the front of the covered picnic shelter, waving her hands with her warm smile and joyful spirit, greeting everyone with a heartfelt, “Welcome!” Her presence set the tone for the day, making each person feel loved, valued, and at home. Through these gatherings, Mordine created a lasting legacy of love, unity, and togetherness that will live on for generations to come.

Mordine LaRuth was a unique name, fitting for a uniquely and divinely created woman. She lived, she worked, she taught, she believed, she loved, she worshipped, she prayed, and she trusted God. She helped others, she laughed, she cried, and she touched countless lives along the way. Through her faith, strength, and compassion, she became an inspiration to many. Her life was a testament to God’s grace, and her legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

Mordine LaRuth Caston passed away on Sunday, August 2, 2026, at her home, surrounded by family.

Mordine was preceded in death by her father; Burlee Harvey; her mother Annie Harvey; her sisters; Peggy Brown (Spence Sr.), Mary Holloway (Carl Jr.), Vera Wilcox (Philbert Sr.); her brothers; Waldo Harvey (Thelma), Joe Harvey (Faye); two sons-in-law; Richard Robinson, Willie Arrington Jr., and her granddaughter; Tricia Allen-Scruggs. Mordine is survived by her children: Willie Delores Robinson, Attorney Charles D. Allen (Vanessa), and Jeanette Arrington: her grandchildren; Kevin Robinson (Monifa), Zaneta Arrington, Keon Robinson (Elaine), Chanda Allen-Baffoe (Kwamena), Dr. Keisha Campbell (Terrance), Canice Arrington, Sarita Battles (Shun), Dr. Keila Barnes (Freddy), DeVonte Allen, Christiana Allen-Coble (Gideon), and Jordyn Livsey; her siblings; BH Harvey, Alvin Harvey (Debra), Toncie Booker (Lonnie Sr.), Mollie Harvey, special God-Daughter Nattie Scott and a host of great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

“God blesses those who mourn, for they will be comforted.” Matthew 5:4