Raymond "Neal" Castillo , passed away at the age of 49, in Dallas, Texas, on May 17, 2026, surrounded by his loved ones, leaving behind a family who adored him and a circle of friends who will never forget the sound of his laugh. Neal had a way of turning even an ordinary moment into a story worth retelling. If he was in the room, you felt it — he was the spark, the storyteller, the one who could make you laugh until you couldn't breathe.

Neal was born on September 9, 1976, in Corsicana, TX to Raymond Joe Castillo and Margaret (Espinoza) Castillo and raised in Ennis, TX.

Neal was a proud and loving husband, father, grandfather, and son. Nothing meant more to him than his family. He is survived by his wife, Monica Rico , who was his partner in every sense of the word; his daughters Courtney Oropeza (and son-in-law Caleb ) and Cristyn Castillo , who were the lights of his life; and his cherished grandson Noah , who brought him a joy that softened him in the sweetest ways. He is also survived by his mother Carmen "Margaret" Castillo ; his brother Adrian Castillo ; his sister Lisa Garcia (and husband Alfonso ); and a large, loving extended family of aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews who each held a special place in his heart.

He is preceded in death by his father, Raymond Joe Castillo , and his dog Benjamin "Benji" Sir Didymus Castillo .

Neal dedicated nearly 24 years to the Texas Army National Guard , retiring as a Staff Sergeant in October 2025. He carried his service with pride — not for recognition, but because helping others was simply who he was.

Outside of his uniform, Neal was pure joy in motion. He loved just hanging out with his family, whether it be going to Dave & Busters, the movies or simply just getting together for a meal or a drink. He loved all types of music and never passed up a chance to sing karaoke, attending concerts or just sitting and having a few drinks with friends at their favorite dive bar. He was a lifelong wrestling fanatic and could talk storylines and legends for hours. Comic-cons were his happy place, especially when he got to meet the wrestlers and actors he admired. He had a big heart and an even bigger willingness to show up for people. If someone needed help, Neal was already grabbing his keys.

After retirement, his number one goal was to get some land and a home to have plenty of rooms for our girls and their families to come and stay and play. With the help of his wife, they were able to do just that. Buying the ranch in Emory was his dream.

And though he teased everyone about the endless "honey-do" lists, the truth was simple — helping his wife and daughters was his favorite thing to do. It made him feel needed, connected, and proud.

Neal lived loudly, loved deeply, and laughed often. His absence leaves a silence that feels impossible, but his stories, his humor, and the love he poured into his family will echo for the rest of our lives.

Submitted by family

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. in the J.E. Keever Mortuary of Ennis with Rosary at 7 p.m.

Mass of the Christian Burial will be held on Wednesday, June 10, 2026, at 10 a.m. in St. John Nepomucene Catholic Church. Interment will follow in St. Joseph Cemetery under the direction of J.E. Keever Mortuary, Inc.