Jerry Joe Castagna was born on October 6, 1938 in West Frankfort, Illinois to the late Mike Castagna and Sophia Lisowski. Jerry graduated from Frankfort Community High School in 1956 and joined the Army where he served his country as a Military Policeman stationed in Germany.  After his tour was completed, he was employed as a refrigeration mechanic at Southern Illinois University for many years until he moved his family to Florida in 1985.  Once in Florida, Jerry achieved his lifelong dream of becoming a general contractor.  If you knew Mr. Jerry, despite numerous conversations with family and friends trying to get him to retire, he hadn't quite given it up yet.  His only hobby was working and he began at the age of 9 peddling newspapers for the Daily American and ended at the age of 85, still building custom homes. Jerry was a good-standing member of the Elks Lodge, Moose Lodge, Lions Club, and American Legion and he was a Mason. Jerry was a kind man and will be missed by all who knew him.

Jerry is survived by his wife, Carolyn Castagna, daughter Holly Castagna, and many, many friends.

Per Jerrys wishes there will be a visitation at Gateway-Forest Lawn Funeral Home on Monday, November 27, 2023 from 4:00-6:00 P.M. Immediately following will be a reception at the Lake City Elks Lodge for a time of reflection and fellowship. Jerry will be buried next to his mother in West Frankfort, Illinois. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Lake City Elks Lodge #893, 259 NE Hernando Street, Lake City, FL 32055.