The Texarkana, Texas City Council reports it is sad to hear the news of the passing of councilmember Bradfield Casteel."Mr. Casteel was a dedicated councilmember, always looking out for his constituents,” Mayor Bob Bruggeman said. “He had the utmost moral character and constantly strove to improve conditions across the city and within his ward. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Casteel family."

Texas Governor Greg Abbott has requested that flags be lowered to half-staff in honor of the life and public service of Councilmember Bradfield “Brad” Casteel beginning Tuesday, June 2 and ending at the close of the day of the funeral or memorial service once it is set by the family. Flags should return to full-staff on the morning after that date.

The City of Texarkana, Ark., will lower flags to half-staff per Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson’s office as well.

Casteel, 65, was a graduate of Dunbar High School in Texarkana, Texas and attended Texarkana College, along with Texas Southern University and North Harris College. He served as a career United States Postal Service Employee in the Houston area before returning to his home in Texarkana.

In addition to serving as a city councilmember, Casteel also worked in the community as a GED Instructor to residents of local juvenile detention facilities. He was a veteran of the United States Army and a member of Polly Chapel Missionary Baptist Church, and also coached little league baseball and football for more than 15 years. Casteel was a dedicated supporter of city employees, having always expressed his concern for their welfare and fair treatment by everyone.

Mayor Bruggeman noted that Casteel showed great respect for the office he held.

“He wore a three piece suit, along with matching hat, tie and shoes to all council meetings. He felt it was important as an elected official to display a professional image at council meetings. We will certainly miss having him on the council,” Bruggeman said.

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