Cedric Eugene "Recap" Casper Jr.

MURFREESBORO, NC - Cedric Eugene Casper, Jr., affectionately known as "Recap" and as "Ced, Jr.," passed away peacefully on September 4, 2025, at the age of 68, at Ahoskie Health and Rehab, Ahoskie, North Carolina, after a brief illness. Cedric was born on August 2, 1957, to Cedric Eugene Casper, Sr. and Gladys Marie Johnson Casper. He spent a vibrant life full of warmth, creativity, and dedication to those he loved.

Growing up in Boykins, Virginia, Cedric earned the nickname "Recap" during his teenage years while working at Coleman's Tire Center. It was a name that stayed with him throughout his life, reflecting both his hard work and charismatic personality. Cedric went on to build a fulfilling career as a machine operator, first with Franklin Equipment and later at Union Camp's lumber yard. After retiring, he found joy working on a farm for George Thorp and hauling peanuts for Severn Peanuts, always staying close to the land he cherished.

Cedric's life was rich with interests and passions. He followed his first love, Deborah Edwards, to Mississippi and brought her back to Boykins, where they married and settled before relocating to Murfreesboro, where he spent the rest of his life. Although their paths diverged and they divorced, Cedric found love again with Rita, with whom he cherished until her passing earlier this year.

An avid fisherman, Cedric would rather fish than eat, though he loved both. He enjoyed family cookouts and pig pickin's, often reminiscing about his racing days at John's Raceway in Boykins with his good friend John Tubbs. Cedric also had a passion for racing go-karts and was a master at foosball during his late teens and early twenties, often playing at Funkhouser's in Boykins. Though he enjoyed pinball, it never quite matched his love for foosball. He enjoyed watching sports as well, and his favorite team was the Washington Redskins.

Cedric had a creative spirit; he once crafted a dirt bike for his daughter, Amanda, from lawn mower parts. There was little he couldn't create with his hands. In his leisure time, he loved cutting grass and listening to his favorite rock and roll bands, including Poison, Journey, and Boston. His favorite phrase, "I reckon," was a testament to his down-to-earth nature.

In his final months, as his health began to decline, Cedric cherished every moment with his family. Calls and visits from loved ones brought him comfort and joy. This year, a sunflower bloomed on his birthday, a fitting tribute to a man who appreciated life's simple pleasures.

Cedric is preceded in death by his parents, Cedric Eugene Casper, Sr. and Gladys Marie Johnson Casper; the mother of his daughter, Deborah Edwards; his wife, Rita Casper; his sisters, Tammy and Janice Casper; and his brother, Steve Casper.

He leaves behind a loving family: his daughter, Amanda Myers, and her husband Justin; his step-son, Joshua Collins; his granddaughter, Erica Phillips; and his grandsons, Peter, William, and Richard Myers.

Friends are invited to visit the home of Amanda and Justin at 105 W. High Street, Murfreesboro, North Carolina. A celebration of Cedric's life will be held at a later date, where stories of his humor, creativity, and enduring spirit will be shared. Cedric's memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

In the words of Recap (or Ced,Jr.) himself, "I reckon" he's off to the greatest fishing spot of all, leaving us with fond memories and a legacy of love.

Online condolences may be directed to the family by visiting garrettsykesfs.com. Garrett-Sykes Funeral Service - Ahoskie Chapel is honored to be assisting the Casper family during this time