It is with grateful, yet heavy hearts, that we celebrate the life of Joe Clarence McCaslin as he leaves behind his adoring wife, Velma Parrish McCaslin. Joe passed peacefully on as the family he held so dear embraced and watched over him. As we look back at a life lived with integrity and dignity, we remember a man who accomplished much as a captain in the navy, professional engineer, father, grandfather, great grandfather and loving husband.
Joe was born in Maiden, N.C. on July 31, 1932 to John Dewey McCaslin and Elsie Ikerd McCaslin (one of 10 children) where he grew into a towering figure working with his father in the homebuilding business and farming their land. He served 4 active years in the U.S. Navy, obtaining his commission after graduating from North Carolina State University. He remained in the Naval Reserves for 38 more years as well as getting his Master’s degree from Purdue University. He was then employed by McDonald Douglas where he helped design the Saturn Rocket.
His strong moral character and high standards shaped the lives of his daughters, Faith McCaslin Shipp and her husband Thomas Thad Shipp of Houston and Mitzi McCaslin Aspiri and her husband Gary Robert Aspiri of Mercer Island, Washington.
Joe is affectionately known by his grandchildren as “smart ole bird” will be remembered best for building an amazing tree fort, jogging on the bayou, rollerblading, snow skiing, water skiing and taking them to military bases, cheering them on at basketball games and dance competitions, and always expecting them to become their very best. He was so proud of Kramer Brooks Aspiri and his wife Shailee Flood Aspiri, Amber Shipp Mercer and her husband Patrick Mercer; Madison Margaret Aspiri; and Alyssa Leigh Shipp. He was overjoyed by the birth of his Great Grandson, Brooks Michael Aspiri, on July 11, 2018.
Joe loved fruit, attending Veteran’s Day school celebrations dressed in his uniform and spending time with his family.
A visitation will be held from 12:30 to 2:00 P.M. with a funeral service at 2:00 P.M. to be followed directly after by a catered reception at Memorial Oaks Funeral Home located at 13001 Katy Freeway, Houston, TX 77079.
Joe will be interred at Arlington National Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Amazing Grace Hospice.
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