Xavier Castro

Mr. Xavier Castro, age 74, of Dalton, Georgia, passed peacefully into eternal rest on Tuesday afternoon, July 8, 2025, at Erlanger Medical Center in Chattanooga, Tennessee.
Born in Zacatecas, Mexico on August 25, 1950, Xavier was the beloved son of the late Jose Castro and Altagracia Talmentes Castro. He was preceded in death by his twin brother, David Castro; brother, Ruben Castro; and brothers-in-law, Tony Jaimes, Don McWhorter, Jay Gossard, and Tony Souther.
A man of quiet strength and deep conviction, Xavier attended Saint Joseph's Catholic Church. He lived his life as a reflection of his steady faith, never boastful, always present, and deeply committed to those he loved. He retired from Shaw Industries, where he was known for his strong work ethic and humility.
Xavier's life was most deeply defined by his devotion to his cherished wife, Debra Souther Castro. Their enduring love story spanned more than three decades, and they looked forward to celebrating their thirty-second wedding anniversary on October 2, 2025. His love for "Nonny," as his grandchildren called her, was evident in every quiet act of care, every shared laugh, and even in their playful nature strengthened their bond.
He is survived by his loving wife, Debra; son, Bobby Castro of La Puente, CA; daughters, Stephanie Castro Macias (Denise Selvey) of Phoenix, AZ, Meleia Phillips-Bridenstine (Steven) of Ball Ground, GA, and Sanna Ma'ka Phillips of Cumming, GA. He was a proud grandfather to Sydney Macias, Sylissa Castro, David Serna, Hannah Castro, Nathaniel Castro, Kaylee Owen, Libby Bridenstine, Cole Miles Bridenstine, and Ella Anne Gilbreath, and great-grandfather to Luna Serna.
Xavier's legacy lives on through his extended family: brothers, Rogelio Talmentes of Los Angeles, CA, and Joe (Martha) Castro of San Dimas, CA; sisters, Martha Gossard of Laughlin, NV, Gracie (Steve) Darby of San Diego, CA, Gloria (Jaime) Gonzalez of Las Vegas, NV, Elsa (Steve) Beraga of Lake Havasu, AZ, and twin sisters, Yolanda Jaimes of Covina, CA, and Julieta McWhorter of Mt. Holly, NC. He is also remembered fondly by many nieces and nephews. Also his Georgia family Billy and Brenda Rogers, Joyce Souther, Bill and Janice Strawser, Rhonda Souther, Terry and Sandy Souther and his Long-time friend Octavio Perez.
A gifted provider of comfort, guidance, and warmth, Xavier was affectionately known as "Poppy" by his grandchildren. His steady presence could calm even the most anxious heart, and his simple gestures-like frying tortillas for spaghetti tacos or getting a glass of water in the quiet of night-spoke volumes of his love. He was a man of few words but endless wisdom, a protector, and a dream-enabler in the most unexpected, beautiful ways.
Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Monday, July 21, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. at Saint Joseph's Catholic Church with Father Arturo Merriman officiating. Xavier will be laid to rest at Ponders Colonial Hills Memorial Park Cemetery and Mausoleum. Pallbearers honored to serve include Steven Bridenstine, Will Blanchard, Mason Blanchard, Nathan Owen, Keith Stafford, and Jason Bair.
As we grieve his loss, we find peace in remembering Xavier's strength, his love, and his legacy. He was truly the solid force in the lives of his family-a man of grace, humor, and unwavering devotion.
"Thank you for being ours, Poppy. I love you." Click To View Live Streaming Service Of Mr. Xavier Castro
Arrangements by:
Ponders Melrose Chapel
138 Melrose Drive, Dalton, GA 30721
(706) 226-4002
www.selectedindependentfuneralhomes.org