It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Ethel L. Casey, a beloved mother, grandmother, great grandmother and great great grandmother, who departed this life on September 10th,2025 at 99 years old.
Born on February 2nd, 1926 in Keota, Oklahoma, Ethel lived a life marked by strength, grace, and unwavering loyalty. A woman of deep character, she faced life’s challenges with courage and determination, never backing down when it mattered most. Her independence was as fierce as it was inspiring — she stood firmly on her principles and lived life on her own terms, always with dignity and quiet strength.
Ethel was deeply devoted to her family. Her loyalty was not just spoken but lived — in the sacrifices she made, the support she gave, and the values she passed down. She found her greatest joy in her grandchildren, who were the light of her life. She delighted in their laughter, cherished their stories, and showered them with unconditional love.
As a mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, great-great-grandmother, and even great-great-great-grandmother, Ethel’s legacy is truly a living one spanning six remarkable generations. She was the matriarch of a family that now has a plethora of descendants, each carrying a piece of her generous spirit, sharp wit, and unwavering kindness.
Her faith was a steady compass throughout her life — a source of strength that she leaned on and quietly shared with others by example. Though strong in spirit, Ethel also cared deeply about her appearance. She believed in presenting her best self to the world, and her elegance, both inside and out, was evident to all who knew her. Her style and dignity left a lasting impression.
Ethel is survived by her children Roderick Smith (Barbara), Jim Casey (Vickie) and Geraldine Vernon; her grandchildren Gerald Vernon, Darrel Vernon, Ricky Vernon, Waylon Vernon, Cristy Stearns, Justin Dick, Tawny Smith, Kirsten Smith, Cory Smith; her 22 Great Grandchildren, 19 Great-Great Grandchildren and her 1 Great-Great-Great Grandchild. She was preceded in death by her parents Joseph and Rachel Willhite, her son-in-law William Vernon, and her 14 siblings.
A visitation will be held on September 17th, 2025 from 3:00pm – 7:00pm, located at Whitehurst-Norton-Dias Funeral Service 286 W. Main St, Turlock, Ca 95380.
A chapel service will be held on September 18th, 2025 at 11:00am located at Whitehurst-Norton-Dias Funeral Service 286 W. Main St, Turlock, Ca 95380 and will be immediately followed by the committal service located at Winton Cemetery District 7651 Almond Ave, Winton, Ca 95388.
In honoring her life, we remember Ethel as a woman who stood tall, loved deeply, and lived fully. She will be deeply missed and forever cherished.
