Jesse Castillo was born in Burnet, Texas on March 26, 1943, to Lorenzo Castillo and Dorthy Rivera. Sadly, Dorthy passed during childbirth and Jesse was raised later by Vera Castillo, alongside his dad. He was later drafted into the United States Army and served from 1969 to1971. Upon his return to the States, Jesse worked as a bouncer for a dance club in Austin. It was there that he met the love of his life, Edila Garcia Castillo. To hear him tell the story, as soon as she walked into the club, it was love at first sight and he knew he wanted her to be his wife. Jesse is remembered most for his smile and for his amazing cooking skills. He could be tough when he needed to be and intimidated most people, but deep down he was a gentle person with a one-of-a-kind smile. Jesse always found a way to make you laugh, whether it was through a goofy word, a story, or singing. His favorite songs to sing were “Come and be my Baby” and “On Top of Old Smokey.” He sang these songs so much that if you ask any of his children or grandchildren, they can recite these lyrics by heart. Even in his last moments, Jesse had a way of bringing comfort to his family. During his last breath he still had his little smile. It was that smile that encourages us because we know that he is still here with us spiritually.
Jesse Castillo is survived by wife Edila Castillo and children: Mary Christine Leavitt, Maria Baladez (spouse Joe), Elijio Garza (spouse Andrea), Emilio Garza (spouse Olga), Robert Fuentes, Jessica Adams (spouse James), Elida Castillo, Lorenzo Castillo (spouse Sandra) and many grandchildren, great grandchildren and great, great grandchildren.
Visitation will be held Thursday October 21, 2021 at Clements-Wilcox Funeral Home from 6:00 - 8:00 pm. Funeral Service will be held Friday October 22, 2021 at Clements-Wilcox Funeral Home at 2:00 pm.The Burnet VFW will be hosting a dinner at 4:00 pm on Friday October 22, 2021 following the interment at Post Mountain.
