Tommy "Grumps" William Casey

Tommy (Grumps) William Casey, Air Force Lt. Col. (Ret.), 73, passed away in Austin, Texas, on October 11, 2018, after a valiant fight against health issues.  He was born on December 16, 1944, in Teague, Texas to Roy Sr. and Modena Casey.  He was raised on a cattle ranch in Fairfield, Texas, where he was a high school Valedictorian and 4 sport Varsity Letterman.  After graduating from Texas A & M University’s Corp of Cadets as a Distinguished Military Graduate with Honors and Squadron Commander in 1967, he was commissioned into the U.S. Air Force, where he served for 24 years as a Fighter Pilot.  He logged over 3,000 hours in the pilot’s seat of almost every close combat aircraft, including his favorite, the F-15 Eagle.  He retired from the Air Force with numerous decorations, including the Distinguished Flying Cross.  For the next 18 years, he taught Math at Gateway School in Bastrop, Texas, after earning his teaching certificate. He was able to use his military training and discipline to mentor and make a positive difference in many kids’ lives.  Tommy’s final post-retirement job was at the Hyatt Regency Lost Pines, where he was a Marshall at the Wolfdancer Golf Club.  He enjoyed teaching and watching his kids and grandkids play golf and other sports, including volleyball, football, basketball, skiing, fishing and hunting.

Tommy is survived by his wife of 55 years, Jimmie Compton Casey, who was always by his side and strongest advocate.  Together, they provided a solid foundation and life of adventure and travels for the family they built.  Grump’s children and grandchildren are proud of the legacy he leaves:  daughter Kim Casey and her son, Nathan Aman; son Kevin Casey; daughter Carmene Harman and her husband Michael Harman and their children, Casey and Caitlyn.  Grandson Christian Harman left us too soon last year but now has Grumps back with him, flying together through the heavens.  Grumps also held the Chapin family close:  Charlie and Mychele and their sons Bryce and Bailey.  Tommy is also survived by all of his siblings:  Roy Casey, Jr. (Doris) of Fairfield, Texas; Ronald Casey of Houston, Texas; and Mary Ann Fulmer (Merle) of Lubbock, Texas. He is also remembered by his many nieces, nephews and their children and grandchildren.  The entire family is grateful to Tommy for his service to our Country and our Family.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, October 13, 2018 from 1:00 P.M. until 6:00 P.M. and on Sunday, October 14, 2018 from 1:00 P.M. until 4:00 P.M. at the home of the Chapin family located at 432 Kaanapali Lane, Bastrop, Texas, 78602.  A Graveside Service, with military honors, will be held on Monday, October 15, 2018 at 2:00 P.M. at Lake Chapel Cemetery in Fairfield, Texas.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Christian Harman Memorial Fund made through the 1st National Bank of Bastrop - 1021 Main Street, Bastrop, Texas  78602