Heidemarie Helga Castillo

Heidemarie Helga Castillo, 82, of Lexington, SC passed away on Sunday, July 5, 2026. She was born on July 16, 1943 in Berlin, Germany to Greta Hecht and Otto H. Werner. She and James Castillo were united in marriage on December 28, 1972, in Dillon, South Carolina.

Heidemarie embraced a life of dedication and adventure as a proud military wife, supporting her husband throughout his career in the United States Army. Together, they traveled the world, beginning in Berlin, Germany, then to Fort Campbell, Kentucky, back to Germany, onward to Fort Jackson, South Carolina, Fort Gulick in Panama, returning once more to Fort Campbell, and finally back to Germany before retiring through Fort Jackson in 1990. After decades of service to her family and country, she made her home in Lexington, South Carolina, where she built a life rooted in love, resilience, routine and stability.

She found her greatest joy in spending time with her family, cherishing every moment shared. In quieter hours, she loved working through crossword puzzles, a simple pleasure that reflected her curiosity and sharp mind.

She is survived by her husband, James Castillo; her children, Ariane Freeman of North Augusta, GA, Birgit and Keith Brown of Chapin, SC, and James and Bonnie Castillo of Lexington SC; two grandchildren, Diana Brown and Alex Castillo; a brother, Hansjürgen and a sister, Hannelore Hoose, both from Germany.

Visitation will be from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Caughman-Harman Funeral Home – Lexington Chapel, 503 North Lake Drive, Lexington, SC 29072 on Wednesday, July 15, 2026. A graveside service will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Thursday, July 16, 2026, at Fort Jackson National Cemetery, 4170 Percival Rd, Columbia, SC 29229.