Greenville, South Carolina, October 2, 2025
News Summary
James Franklin Casteel, 72, passed away on June 22, leaving behind a legacy of commitment to education and family. Born in Texas, he enhanced educational practices in South Carolina. His vibrant life with his husband included global travels and cherished memories. A graveside service is set for October 18.
Greenville, South Carolina – James Franklin Casteel, age 72, passed away peacefully on June 22, 2025. His death marks the end of a life dedicated to education and filled with love for family and friends.
Born on October 1, 1952, in Palestine, Texas, Casteel relocated to Greenville, South Carolina, with his family at the age of seven. He continued to make significant contributions to the education sector, having graduated from Furman University. Casteel furthered his academic pursuits by earning two master’s degrees and a Ph.D. in Educational Testing, Development, Research, and Design from the University of South Carolina.
Casteel dedicated his career to the South Carolina Department of Education, where he served with distinction until his retirement in 2008. Throughout his tenure, he was known for his commitment to enhancing educational practices across the state.
In 1981, Casteel met his husband, Bill Hopkins, in Columbia, South Carolina. The couple shared a vibrant life together, ultimately establishing their home in Rancho Mirage, California, after retiring. Their travels took them around the world, with memorable experiences such as the Running of the Bulls in Spain and cooking classes in Italy. The couple enjoyed many trips to Hawaii, which became a favored destination.
James Casteel is survived by his sister, Sally Casteel Craven (David), and four nephews: James Craven, Cas Craven, Curtis Taylor (Hope), and Jay Taylor (Megan). He was preceded in death by his husband Bill Hopkins, his parents Margaret and Jim Casteel, and his sister Lacey Ellis.
A graveside service for James Franklin Casteel is scheduled for Saturday, October 18, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Christ Episcopal Church in Greenville, South Carolina. He will be remembered for his intelligence, kindness, integrity, and the profound love he held for family and friends. His legacy includes not only his professional accomplishments but also a life well-lived, filled with caring and meaningful connections.
FAQ
When did James Franklin Casteel pass away?
James Franklin Casteel passed away peacefully on June 22, 2025.
Where was James Franklin Casteel born?
He was born on October 1, 1952, in Palestine, Texas.
What was his educational background?
He graduated from Furman University and earned two master’s degrees and a Ph.D. in Educational Testing, Development, Research, and Design from the University of South Carolina.
What was his career?
He dedicated his career to the South Carolina Department of Education until retirement in 2008.
Who are his survivors?
He is survived by his sister Sally Casteel Craven (David), and four nephews: James Craven, Cas Craven, Curtis Taylor (Hope), and Jay Taylor (Megan).
When is the graveside service?
A graveside service is scheduled for Saturday, October 18, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Christ Episcopal Church in Greenville, South Carolina.
Key Features of James Franklin Casteel’s Life
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | James Franklin Casteel |
| Date of Birth | October 1, 1952 |
| Date of Death | June 22, 2025 |
| Career Focus | Education, South Carolina Department of Education |
| Retirement Year | 2008 |
| Place of Retirement | Rancho Mirage, California |
| Graveside Service Date | October 18, 2025 |
| Survived By | Sister Sally Casteel Craven, four nephews |
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Additional Resources
- Legacy: Kenneth Nelson Obituary
- Wikipedia: James Franklin Casteel
- Greenville Online: James Franklin Casteel Obituary
- Google Search: James Franklin Casteel
- Dignity Memorial: Rodman Brown Obituary
- Encyclopedia Britannica: James Franklin Casteel
- Tribute Funeral Homes: Kimberly Shaffer Obituary
- Google News: James Franklin Casteel
- Riverbender: Sandy Mullen Obituary
- Google Scholar: James Franklin Casteel
Author: STAFF HERE GREENVILLE
The HERE Greenville Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Greenville community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Greenville Our team includes lifelong Greenville residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent sales in the Heritage Historic District 17 , Greenville’s textile and railroad heritage 2 , and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Greenville Technical College programs) 27 . Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Greenville Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
