Claudia Belle LaCalli

Claudia Belle (Casteel) LaCalli, aged 93, of Houston, Texas, passed away peacefully on Friday, February 2, 2024. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, James F. LaCalli, whom she had married on January 22, 1952. Their love endured for an impressive 70 years, until Jim’s passing in May of 2022. Claudia and Jim shared a passion for dancing, which they continued to enjoy until shortly before Jim’s departure.

In addition to her husband, Claudia was also preceded in death by her parents, J.M. “Jim” and Lizzie Casteel, as well as her siblings: three brothers (J.M Casteel, Jr., Charles Casteel, and Raymond Casteel) and three sisters (Mable Lyle, Leona Dunn, and Freda Baker). She also mourned the loss of two great-grandchildren, Madalynn Smith and Jacob Reyes. She is survived by her sister, Pauline Pittman.

Claudia’s legacy extends through her four children and their spouses: Cynthia Ann Smith (Mike), Robert “Mike” LaCalli (Kelly), James “Karl” LaCalli (Darcee), and Deborah Kay Fernandez (Rico). The family tree branches further with 15 grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren, and three great-great-grandchildren.

For 57 years, Claudia dedicated herself to her work at the Geophysical Directory in Houston, Texas. What began as a temporary assignment turned into a lifelong commitment. Her strong work ethic persisted until the very day the doors closed. But beyond her professional life, Claudia’s heart belonged to her family. She took immense pride in her husband, children, and grandchildren, and her kindness knew no bounds. A devout believer, she maintained a deep connection with the Lord, conversing with Him daily. Claudia’s absence will be profoundly felt, but her memory will endure forever.

A visitation for Claudia will be held Monday, February 26, 2024 from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM at American Heritage Funeral Home, 10710 Veterans Memorial Drive, Houston, TX 77038. A funeral service will occur Monday, February 26, 2024 from 12:30 PM to 1:30 PM, 10710 Veterans Memorial Drive, Houston, TX 77038. A committal service will occur Monday, February 26, 2024 from 2:00 PM to 2:30 PM at Houston National Cemetery, 10410 Veterans Memorial Dr, Houston, TX 77038.