From the Chastain Scrapbook:

Obituary:
Death is abroad in the land, and he selects his victims indiscriminately.

Sam'l Caster, Leon's most honored and most loved citizen, as has been expected for some months past, died at an early hour on this Friday morning. His symptoms have been growing gradually more and more alarming for several days, and his death has been hourly expected. During the two days preceding his decease, many persons called to take a last look at him while a glimmering spark of life yet lingered. He sank very fast toward the close. All was done for him that kind friends and the best physicians could do. Sam'l Caster was one of nature's noblemen. Leon could have better spared almost any other one of her citizens, for his enterprise, industry and perseverance has done more to make Leon what it is than any one else. an entire people are in mourning for the loss of this sterling citizen. His funeral will take place tomorrow--Saturday--and in accordance with his expressed will the funeral ceremonies will be conducted and participated in by the Christian Church, and the Masonic Fraternity, i.e. these societies will have immediate charge of the proceedings. Mr. Caster was a zealous and exemplary member of each of the above societies--a true Christian and an earnest and worthy Mason. A large concourse of people will attend the ceremonies. The sorrow-stricken survivors--the faithful wife and the fond children, have the sympathy of an entire community.

Copied by Judy Chastain
February 22, 2003