Edgardo Estavillo Castro, age 81, passed away peacefully on Friday, September 18, 2026, in Jacksonville, Florida, leaving behind a big, connected family, a loving community, and a full life of hopes and dreams realized.
Ed, who is known as Dad, Lolo, Grandpa, and dear friend, grew up in the small town of Pura, Tarlac, Philippines, and was a loving son to Simeona and Eugenio and a caring brother to his siblings, Josie (Felipe), Danilo (Cresentia), and Miriam (Charles). From humble beginnings to becoming a decorated Master Chief in the US Navy, Ed has always put his heart and soul in whatever he pursued. He is known to be a “Jack-of-all-trades”, and truly a man of many talents. From working on cars and building furniture with his own hands to sewing beautiful dresses for his family, there seemed to be very little he couldn’t do. His gift for sewing was especially meaningful, a skill lovingly passed down to him by his mother when he was growing up. These talents were more than just things he knew how to do, they were ways he showed his creativity, dedication, and love for his family.
Ed loved to cook, and his dishes were enjoyed by all. He always appreciated good food, having traveled across the globe and having lived in California, Washington, Japan, Thailand, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Florida. A forever [San Diego] Chargers fan, he also loved sports and was so proud of his grandchildren’s development in their respective sport. Ed, in retirement, served his church family, spent his weekends with the Ezra bible study group, and keenly tended his garden.
Ed loves the Lord, and was proud of his family and country. He worked very hard and focused his time and energy on providing for his family so they can, and are able to pursue their own dreams and happiness. He was a sentimental man and deeply held family values, with joy and humor along the way. He will forever be missed dearly.
Ed leaves behind his loving wife, Anabel, his children, Charlotte (Aaron), Mary Rose (Jorge), Eugene (Koa), Kristan (Linh), Kevin, Anna Katrina (Hunter) and EJ, and his grandchildren, Savannah (Brandon), Jacob, Alexis, Aiden, Brandon,Colton, Malaya, Luke, Bennett, Judah, and baby Kekoa.
A Funeral Service will be held at Christ Cares Alliance Church, 1620 St Johns Bluff Rd N, Jacksonville, FL 32225, US, on September 25, 2026, beginning at 7:00 pm with a short visitation prior, beginning at 5:30 PM.
Visitation will take place at Hardage-Giddens Chapel Hills Funeral Home, 850 St Johns Bluff Road North, Jacksonville, FL 32225, US, on September 26, 2026, from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm.
A Committal Service will be held at Jacksonville National Cemetery, 4083 Lannie Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32218, US, on September 29, 2026, from 11:00 am to 11:30 am.
