Alton Leroy Cast

Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints.  Alton Leroy Cast, 88, also known as Pawpaw, Brother, and Uncle Bubba, claimed his sainthood citizenship in heaven with his Savior Jesus Christ on July 26, 2023.  He passed peacefully at William R Courtney Texas State Veterans Home in Temple.

Leroy was born on April 13, 1935 to Barnes and Nolan (Bonds) Cast in Thorndale.  The family moved to Freeport, and later were one of the first families to settle in Lake Jackson.  Leroy graduated from Brazosport High School and furthered his education at LeTourneau University receiving his degree in welding engineering.

In 1958 Leroy proudly served his country in Korea earning the rank of E-5 Sergeant.  He was a welding instructor, and made specialist in 17 ½ months.  He continued his service in the Army Reserve until 1964.

In 1966, Leroy moved to Thorndale and begin working for Commercial Contracting before going to work for Alcoa retiring in 1995.  He was proud to serve as Trustee on the executive board of the United Steelworkers Local 4895.  He served on the Joint Apprenticeship Committee assisting many, including some family members, to secure careers in the electrical/mechanical departments.

Leroy became a Christian at an early age and served faithfully in many churches until he was no longer physically able to do so. Music was one of Leroy’s greatest passions. He had a beautiful voice which he used to serve His Lord by singing special music.  He led music in numerous revivals, and joyfully served as a music director in various churches throughout the years.

On July 7, 1972, Leroy wed the love of his life, Letha, and in 2022 celebrated 50 wonderful years together .

Leroy was proud to belong to the Masonic Lodge in Thorndale and was an active member for many years.  He, at one time, was co-owner of gun shop in Rockdale; he loved the beach; loved camping, hiking, playing games, and vacationing with Letha and grandchildren.  He was proud to have been a part of the construction of the LBJ Library in Austin.  He had a special gift of making others feel comfortable and loved.

Leroy was preceded in death by his parents, wife Letha, brother Don Cast, sister-in-law Debbie Marx, brothers-in-law Jimmy Melton and Dudley Marx.

He leaves behind daughter, Denise Melde (Rickey) of Thorndale, son,
Delan Decker of Thorndale, chosen family Kevin/Monica Barchenger of Thrall, niece Nola Dent (Harold) of Clute, nephew Billy Cast of Brazoria, Sister-in-laws Margaret Preuss (Clifford) of Taylor, Eileen Melton of Hutto, Ethel Melton of Hutto, Elma Adams (David) of Georgetown, Wanda Merz (Paul) of Elgin, brother-in-law Keith Perrin (Carolyn) of Temple, grandchildren Eric Melde (Daiga) of Thorndale, Jared Melde of Thorndale, Caleb Melde (Courtney) of Granbury, Emma Monahan (Isaiah) of Temple, Tyler Barchenger (Kylie Loving) of Cedar Park, Wyatt Barchenger of Hutto, and Cody Barchenger (Helena) of Taylor.  Cherished great-grandchildren Harper, Milam, Maddox, and Kenley Melde, Phoebe Monahan and Brooks Barchenger, and new baby Melde due in November, many cousins, nieces and nephews, special lifetime friends, “adopted” children and grandchildren.

Serving as Pall Bearers are grandsons, Eric, Jared and Caleb Melde, Tyler, Wyatt, and Cody Barchenger, and cousin Bobby Cast