Thomas "Al" "Coach" Castellana

Message from Robin Jenkins Monroe - January 25, 2016 at 12:08 PM

Sheila, John, and family, My first memory of Al was during Mike's funeral service. I watched as he left his seat and went to comfort Mike's girlfriend. That simple act left a powerful image in my mind as to what kind of man he was. Over the years we have shared so many wonderful memories with your dad and mom, so much laughter, and to Johnny's sisters, Al was true family to us. My last memory of him was during our yearly vacation, this time at Stonewall. We were all listening to music and it was getting late. When he was asked if he wanted to go to bed, he said he'd rather stay where he was. He started moving to the music in his seat, and I could see the joy in his face just sitting there with family and having a good time. We all hope when we pass that the world is a better place because of some difference we made. Undoubtedly, Al made a difference and his impact has been felt by so many people, and in the family, for generations to come. Much love to all of you, Robin and Jim

Message from Patrick & Rachel Campbell - January 25, 2016 at 10:31 AM

Patrick & Rachel Campbell purchased the Country Basket Blooms for the family of Thomas "Al" "Coach" Castellana.

Message from January 25, 2016 at 10:16 AM

Peaceful White Lilies Basket was purchased for the family of Thomas "Al" "Coach" Castellana.

Message from Sandy Trzcinski - January 25, 2016 at 07:59 AM

Al left his imprint on my heart many years ago. He always presented with that unique smile followed by a wink second to none. He was fun and such a sweet man. He loved so many & was kind. He was not my coach or teacher... Just a friend. Thanks Al, you will be missed.

Message from Harry Mitchell - January 25, 2016 at 07:58 AM

Coach Castellana was a good teacher, a good coach, a good parent and a good man. Rhonda and I send our condolences and prayers to the Castellana family.Harry Mitchell ('75)

A candle was lit by Charlotte Childers Green - January 24, 2016 at 08:47 PM

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My thoughts and prayers go out to Sheila, Ziggy, Ruthie & their families! I am so sorry you lost such a wonderful father but we thank you all for sharing him with us for all these years!! He was a mentor, friend, inspiration & "COACH" for so many young men & women; always be proud of the man your Dad was & remember we all loved him & your mother!! I remember how they welcomed everyone into their home & put up with all of us crazy teenagers - they smiled & then just fed us!! Love you all, Charlotte (Childers) Green

Message from Mark and Roberta Williams - January 23, 2016 at 07:27 PM

Our thoughts and prayers are with your family at this time. Cherish your memories.

Message from January 23, 2016 at 01:33 PM

Sheila Jenkins is following this tribute.

Message from John McFarlin - January 22, 2016 at 05:11 PM

In my book I referred to Coach as An "Inspirational Rock" that has led by example and his life long fundamentals made everyone better. His legacy has been set for us to embrace the high standards he delivered to each of us. If he had a motto to leave us I believe it would be-Be Exceptional To The End Result. Just continue to GET BETTER. I will miss our phone conversations that we had throughout the years, but I will always treasure each one of them. God blessed me by by knowing and loving"THE COACH".John McFarlin

Message from Mike and Crystal Loughney - January 22, 2016 at 10:22 AM

Mike and Crystal Loughney purchased the Peaceful White Lilies Basket for the family of Thomas "Al" "Coach" Castellana.

Message from jean dupont - January 22, 2016 at 09:23 AM

Al was a great comfort and support to my husband, Don, who is homebound and wheelchair confined. Al, in his caring kindness, frequently took the time and much effort, to visit Don. His visits lifted Don's spirits and he enjoyed talking sports and current events. We, especially, Don, will miss him. Rest in peace, Al and play ball with the angels. Our prayers and condolences to the family. Don & Jean Dupont

Message from jason cooke - January 21, 2016 at 04:37 PM

You will forever me missed. You were truly a great guy and so glad that the old DW gang got you to realize who were truly the good guys in town. God speed my friend.

Message from Nancy Swing - January 21, 2016 at 01:51 PM

Nancy Swing purchased the Country Basket Blooms for the family of Thomas "Al" "Coach" Castellana.

Message from Nancy Swing - January 21, 2016 at 12:40 PM

Coach was our class advisor (1965), and his advice was always given in ways that helped us grow. In fact, that's how I think of him: he wanted each of us to learn how to be our best. What greater gift can there be? I've lived most of my life overseas, so we were out of touch. But in recent years, thanks to WI friends, we were back in contact, exchanging cards and notes now and then. When I heard of his passing, my first thought was that now the angels in heaven must be singing to have him there.Nancy SwingPacific Grove, CA

Message from January 21, 2016 at 07:56 AM

Lovely One Spathiphyllum Plant was purchased for the family of Thomas "Al" "Coach" Castellana.

Message from Larry Alvaro - January 20, 2016 at 05:44 PM

Less than 4 weeks ago, Dave Romano and I were Blessed to have seen Coach. He was in good spirits and could not talk enough about football and the good characters of his players. He gave us both a hugh hug and mentioned how much he loved us both. Even those later days, he still left us with a very profound message. He told us how lived a very Blessed life and each night he thanks God for the lovely day that he was given. And we should always be grateful for each day as a gift from God. He was ready to be with his lovely wife that he spoke about so lovingly. We thought, even his last days, he was still coaching and teaching....A great man that leaves us with many of smiles and good stories. Larry Alvaro

Message from Doris Haslebacher - January 20, 2016 at 05:05 PM

Sorry to hear of Coach's passing. I had him as a history teacher and he also helped coach me in the shot put when I was on the girls track team. He was a great guy. Prayers for your family! Doris Haslebacher

Message from BOB SWIGER - January 20, 2016 at 04:33 PM

BOB SWIGER purchased the Basket of Memories for the family of Thomas "Al" "Coach" Castellana.

A candle was lit by Sara Howe - January 20, 2016 at 02:44 PM

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Al, was my teacher and later became a friend. He and Jeanie were good people that always welcomed people with a smile and knowledge that they knew you. Thank you for sharing your parents. Prayers are sent to your family.

Message from Willy & Becky Critchfield; CJ Martin - January 20, 2016 at 01:41 PM

Willy & Becky Critchfield; CJ Martin purchased the Divine Peace Bouquet for the family of Thomas "Al" "Coach" Castellana.

Message from Mike Blackshire - January 20, 2016 at 08:53 AM

We are so sorry for your loss of a family member and our loss of a great friend. Coach helped me at a time when I was in need of guidance. Coach was a great man and will always hold a special place in our hearts.

Message from Jerry L. Justice - January 21, 2016 at 01:51 PM

Coach took me to my first college football at Knoxville Tenn., to see Johnny Majors play. It was one of biggest trip of my LIFE.. Coach was a good person, I will be left with a lot of memorys of him.

Message from jason cookei - January 21, 2016 at 06:12 PM

Very well said. Mike and Betty hope you two are doing well. Love,Jason Cooke

Message from Kenneth L Gorby - January 26, 2016 at 06:39 PM

He was a wonderful man. Kenneth (SARGE) Gorby

Message from TOM HUNNT - January 26, 2016 at 09:58 AM

Coach ; you were a great man who was a great mentor and friend to many people to which l am pleased to be one of them. You will be missed. GOD bless you .

Message from January 25, 2016 at 05:59 PM

Rose Remembrance was purchased for the family of Thomas "Al" "Coach" Castellana.