Jesse J. Cassady Jr.

Jesse J. Cassady, Jr., affectionately known as "Pop", entered into rest peacefully at his home in Mulberry, Florida, on September 29, 2025, at the age of 99. He was the beloved husband of the late Lacy Maxwell Cassady, who preceded him in death on January 14, 2013.

Pop was born in Salem, Virginia on October 5, 1925, to the late Jesse James Cassady, Sr., and Elvie (Effinger) Cassady. He went on to have a long and distinguished career as a chemical engineer at Edgewood Arsenal in Maryland. His passion for aviation began early, as he started flying with his father at the age of 14. At just 17, he made the courageous decision to enlist in the United States Army Air Corps and officially entered service at 18. Because he had already committed to serving his country, his mother proudly accepted his high school diploma on his behalf. Following his enlistment, he was selected for flight training at the University of Alabama. After completing his military service, he pursued higher education and graduated from Virginia Tech with a degree in Chemical Engineering.

Pop and his beloved wife, Lacy, shared a deep love for travel and the outdoors. They spent many years exploring the beauty of the American landscape together before settling into a quieter life. In the late 1970s, they purchased a 16-acre farm that became a place of peace and purpose. There, they lovingly restored the farmhouse, cared for an orchard, and boarded thoroughbred horses.

Pop is survived by his son, C. Dale Rank of Mulberry, Florida; four grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild. He is also lovingly remembered by his nephews, Bobby and Jimmy, and his nieces, Diana and Janet. He was preceded in death by his sister, Edith Fletcher.

A viewing for Pop will be held on Monday, October 6, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at Wagner-Elfner and Harkins Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Inc., 600 Main Street, Delta. A funeral service will begin at 11:00 a.m., with Bobby Hacket, Lead Pastor of Grace Assembly of God in Bel Air, Maryland, officiating. Burial will follow at Emory Cemetery in Street, Maryland.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Pop's memory may be made to: SPCA, 5850 Brannen Road S, Lakeland, FL33813