CUSTALOW, Carl "Lone Eagle", crossed over on October 24, 2022, at the age of 78. Carl "Lone Eagle" was born to the late Chief Webster, "Little Eagle" and Mary Lee "White Feather" Custalow on the Mattaponi Indian Reservation in King William County, Va. Carl was predeceased by his parents; two brothers, Dr. Linwood Custalow and Ryland Custalow; and two sisters, Shirley Custalow McGowan and Delores Custalow Salmons. Carl believed it was important to have purpose in life. His purpose had much to do with strengthening and protecting the Mattaponi River, the Reservation and the thousands' year old culture of his people. He left home at the age of 14 to further his education. He graduated from Freeman High School, and earned a degree from the University of Richmond. He retired from State Farm Insurance after 32 years of service. He returned to the Reservation to live and was elected assistant Chief in 1993 and Chief 2003 until 2012. Carl is survived by his sons, Todd Custalow (Danielle) and Chad Custalow; brother, Leon (Helen); his sisters, Eleanor Custalow Cannada (Alton), Edith Custalow Kuhns and Debbie Custalow Graciano (Rick); sister in-law, Barbara Custalow (Linwood's wife); grandson, Connor Custalow; and many nieces and nephews. There will be a private ceremony for immediate family. The family is being served by the Bennett Funeral Home, Mechanicsville Chapel.

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Published by Richmond Times-Dispatch from Oct. 27 to Nov. 2, 2022.

Memories and Condolences
for Carl Custalow

Sponsored by Bennett Funeral Homes - Mechanicsville.

10 Entries

Madeline McMillan

October 24, 2024

Remembering this wonderful man and missing his presence among us.

Kay Slaughter

October 21, 2024

Remembering Carl Custalow and his leadership and humanity as we worked to prevent Newport News from building the reservoir on the Mattaponi. May he rest in peace.

Katherine (Kay) Ewing Slaughter

March 14, 2023

Dear Family, i cant remember if I wrote before but i sent this obituary today to a couple of other people i thought would want to know.
I worked for the Southern Environmental Law Center on the King William case representing the environmental groups. we were partners with the Tribe and its lawyers David bailey and hope Babcock. We also visited with Carl and Todd at many hearings and at the annual pow wow. Carl definitely made a difference in the outcome: the abandonment of the KW Reservoir that would have harmed the river shad, other aspects of river ecology and biota and, most important, the heritage and future for the Tribe.
I´m glad i had the opportunity to know this fine person.
Kay Slaughter, Charlottesville

Madeline McMillan

October 30, 2022

It was an honor to know him, and his dedication to his people served as an example to all. Will never forget the wonderful afternoon we spent in his home! My deepest condolences to his children and all who loved him.

Carole Davis '62 DSF

October 28, 2022

I graduated with Carl from Douglas Freeman. I didn't know him well but I remember his smile and how all the girls thought he was so handsome. We also sang in Glee Club together. I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts are with the entire family at this very difficult time. Sincerely,

Veronica Reel

October 28, 2022

As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends. Sending condolences love hugs and prayers. I know Family and friends were greeting and rejoicing on that golden shore when God took him home. ..prayers for peace and strength..
..gonna miss you my Cousin..
Veronica(Roni) Custalow Reel

bob bloxom

October 28, 2022

R.I.P. Carl.

Pat Philpotts Lawson

October 28, 2022

After seeing your Dad's obituary, I shared with his classmates at DSF. Most of us remembered him well and were glad to get the rest of his story. As one person said, "what a legacy!"

Lee Hammock

October 27, 2022

Sorry to hear about your dad
We will be thinking about you
Need anything let us know
Lee and Susan

Ed Dickson

October 27, 2022

I´m very sad to hear that Carl is no longer with us. I worked at State Farm for years with Carl and always considered him to be one of their best employees. He was a very hard worker and always had the company´s best interest in mind. I regret his passing as I know the Mattoponi does also.

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