Benny Joe Caster

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Benny Joe Caster, affectionately known as Poppy to his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, having died peacefully at the age of 85 on January 14, 2025, at 8:20 PM, at his home in Grand Prairie, Texas.

Benny was born on June 27, 1939, to parents, Martin Elmer and Dora Ethel (Creecy) Caster at Parkland Hospital in Dallas, Texas, and was raised in Irving, Texas along with his four brothers, Roy Martin, James Edwin, Claud Willard, and Lloyd Ray Caster. He lived a life full of service, faith, and love, and will be dearly missed by all who knew him.

Benny was preceded in death by his parents, siblings, beloved wife, Alice Caster, his daughter, Paula Forsyth, and his great-grandson, Ryley Skuro. He is survived by his children: Shelley Grissom, Steven McCarroll, Pamela Work, James Forsyth Jr., Chrystal Dixon, and Jason Caster. Benny is also survived by his grandchildren: Megan Jones, Benjamin Grissom, Jaiman Forsyth, Jalyna Regoli, Jalycia Skuro, Matt Sesco, Alycia Marks, Jazzmine Talley, and Brandon Talley. Additionally, he is survived by 18 great-grandchildren, who all brought him great joy. As well, Benny is survived by a host of nieces, nephews, and extended family.

Benny was a proud Air Force veteran and skilled mechanic. He built engines for military aircraft, including those involved in the Pueblo Incident, when North Korea hijacked the USS Pueblo. He also helped convert cargo planes into bombers during the Vietnam War. After his work on planes, Benny transitioned to a career as a diesel mechanic and later a truck driver, continuing his strong work ethic and dedication to his family.

In addition to his mechanical talents, Benny was a man of great faith and service. He was an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and spent many years serving as a priesthood holder, temple worker, and primary teacher, a role that was one of the highlights of his week. Ironically, when Benny and Alice first married, he would tell her that he couldn’t step foot in a church or the building would catch on fire, but knowing they were married in the temple and sealed for all time and eternity gave him peace and joy in his last days.

Though Benny was modest about his life accomplishments, he often loved to share stories of his adventures, local history, landmarks around town, or his thoughts on politics. He had a deep love for learning and sharing that knowledge with others. “Ramming speed” was his signature phrase whenever he sped up while driving, which was rare because he was often seen in the slow lane, always ready to give a geographical history lesson about the changes in the neighborhoods. He loved to point out historical markers and call them “Hysterical Markers.” He was also known for his “shortcuts” as he would call them that usually added several hours to a road trip. He preferred the scenic route.

Poppy was always there when anyone needed him, no questions asked, no repayment necessary, he was just happy to be there during your time of need. His life was a testament to the power of kindness, service, and selflessness. He never judged or said a bad word about anyone. He accepted people for who they were and loved them unconditionally.

He will be missed by all who knew him, but his legacy will live on through his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and all those who he touched during his life.

A visitation for Benny will be held Saturday, January 25, 2025 at 3:00 PM at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 2010 S. Carrier Parkway, Grand Prairie, TX 75051. Funeral service will follow Saturday, at 4:00 PM at the Church. A committal service will take place on Monday, January 27, 2025 at 1:30 PM at Dallas-Fort Worth National Cemetery, 2000 Mountain Creek Parkway, Dallas, TX 75211.

Family and friends may share memories and condolences at www.grandprairiefh.com

Acknowledgments -

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to all who have supported them during this difficult time. Memorial contributions in Benny’s honor may be made by sending flowers or plants to the Grand Prairie Funeral Home before Saturday at 11:00 AM.

Benny’s family takes comfort in knowing he is now reunited with his beloved Alice and that they will be together again in the eternities.