Jerry Lee Kasten

Jerry Lee Kasten, 87, of Eden North Carolina passed away peacefully on January 7, 2026 at UNC Rockingham Hospital surrounded by his beloved family. 

Born in Spray, NC on October 27, 1938, he was the fifth child of Roy Kasten and Iola Mae Kasten. He was raised alongside six siblings in a home where hard work, ingenuity, and self-reliance were daily lessons. From a young age, he learned to be resourceful, finding ways to make do and lend a hand wherever needed. Many of his boyhood days were spent behind his mule, Pete, plowing fields and gaining an appreciation for honest labor that would guide him throughout his life. As a youth, he also took up boxing, developing discipline, grit, and determination - qualities that shaped both his character and the steady resilient man he became.

 Jerry married his wife, Carol, on December 18, 1958 and they welcomed their daughter, Kelly, in 1959. Kelly remained the only star in his blue heaven until his grandchildren, Elizabeth and Spencer Stultz were born. The three of them vied for first place in his heart until the top spots were claimed by his great-granddaughters, Avery and Grace Tucker. He made his living working on a commercial milk truck for Sealtest, a job which also allowed him to be present for school pick ups and all of his children’s activities. Known to most as just “Papa”, he looked after all who needed him - providing a ride, a snack, or a loving hand. He spent countless hours next to football fields, tennis courts, and dance studios, showing up for others in the ways they needed, providing a steady and reliable presence - always just a phone call away.

He was a cherished son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather whose life was rooted in family, tradition, and the outdoors. He found great joy in hunting rabbits, deer, and doves, and treasured the time spent shooting skeet alongside his grandson and son-in-law. Equally dear to his heart were the moments shared showing Tennessee Walking Horses with his daughter, and more recently his great-granddaughter - experiences that reflected his love of heritage, patience, and connection across generations. 

Known as a most engaging storyteller, he had a quick, dry wit and a gift for whittling down a moment to its heart, leaving those around him laughing, listening, and wanting more. His stories - often told with understated humor and perfect timing- were as memorable as the experiences themselves. His legacy lives on in the memories he created, the values he passed down, and the deep love he held for his family. He will be remembered for his steady presence, his quiet joy in simple moments, and his unwavering love for those he held dear. 

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, sisters Janine and Anne, brother Mike, and his wife of 66 years, Carol. He is survived by his beloved daughter Kelly Kasten Stultz and husband Lee, granddaughter Liz Tucker and husband Adam, grandson Spencer Stultz and partner Andrea Gillie, great-granddaughters Avery and Grace Tucker, cherished nephew and Godson Matthew Ryan Kasten, brothers Ham and Larry Kasten, sister Dot Evans, and step-great-grandchildren Malachi and Genesis Gillie.

Services will be held by the family (Funeral home will not be involved) at his home church, Leaksville United Methodist, on Saturday, January 17th, beginning with visitation at 10am, with services to follow at 11am.

Online condolences  may be offered to the family at www.fairfuneralhome.com