Patricia Ann (Raymond) Casto, 87, of Marietta, Georgia, died September 19, 2022. Born August 22, 1935, in Washington D.C., to Robert and Anna Raymond, Patricia (Pat) was one of ten siblings.
Pat had many successful jobs throughout her life, but perhaps her favorite and the one that brought her the greatest joy was as a Caregiver. For families needing help with a loved one, Pat was the answer. Her kindness and compassion unmatched, she felt deeply and gave generously. Although many of her clients were elderly, she had a special place in her heart for children. She can take credit for raising not only her three children, but for helping many young parents raise their children as well. Remembered for her large heart, "Mama Pat" will live on in the many lives she influenced while here on earth.
Pat's life bloomed when Kay and Mike became her grandchildren. Her unconditional love for them provided security and adventure. She was a second parent (mind you, the more lenient one). When Debi married Don Kelly, Pat was overjoyed at the addition of Don's children Adam, Austin, and Sarah Beth. Great-grandchildren followed. A special thank you to great-granddaughter, Shaelin, who always took time to visit "Grandmother Pat" when at DeDe and Poppy's home.
Pat also enjoyed sitting in Debi's yard visiting with the neighbors and watching the many children play. Thank you, Maycey, for being "Mama Pat's" best friend.
She loved country and gospel music and often sang along as she listened. As a young woman she once performed on the Ted Mack Amateur Hour with a country and western band called the Buckskins. She will always be remembered as the inspiration behind the name of the Home By Dark concert series created by her son, James.
Pat laughed with her whole body—giggles, knee slapping, cross your legs, tears-running-down-the-cheeks kind of laughter. There was no limit to the lengths she would go to "get someone" on April Fool's Day. If you knew her, at some time or another she got you! She loved garage sales. "Each man for himself!" she would cry out as she exited the car. She loved a good deal even if she had no use for the item. She was generous beyond measure. Gift giving was in her nature. Her collection of gift bags, wrapping paper, and bows were a sight to behold.
If you have ever sat at Pat's table, more than likely you have tasted her famous potato salad and deviled eggs. They were her specialties along with mashed potatoes, homemade noodles, and chicken and dumplings. A lifelong vegetarian, there were things she cooked she never tasted.
Pat Casto is survived by daughters Debi Casto Kelly (Don) and Judy Casto (Kay and Mike), son James W. Casto (Karen), their father James D. Casto, and Pat's sister, Judy Cobb.
The family wants to thank the staff and neighbors at The Tower at Dorsey Manor and Smyrna Towers for their friendship and devotion to Pat.
A celebration of her life will be held on Saturday, October 22, 2022 at 2:00 p.m. ET at Grace Pointe Marietta Church, 505 Atlanta St. SE, Marietta, GA 30060.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks you to donate to your favorite charity in Pat's memory. Her favorite charity was The Salvation Army.