September 23, 2024
REST IN PEACE
James Timothy Casey was born on August 15,1931, in San Francisco, California, to Aeneas F. Casey and Adele O'Callaghan Casey. He was the beloved brother of Aeneas F. Casey Jr. and Noreen Casey Gunning.
James attended St. John the Evangelist School and Church in San Francisco, followed by St. Joseph's College and St. Patricks Seminary. Each year, he spent several weeks assisting a Spanish-speaking priest who ministered to a community in Mexico, furthering his commitment to service. As a priest, James served the Spanish-speaking community at Sacred Heart Parish in San Jose. He also participated in Cesar Chavez's boycott of the Salinas Valley lettuce harvest, a protest for farmworkers' rights, which led to his arrest along with other protesters. For his solidarity with the cause, James earned the nickname "The Chicano Priest." He also established a dining room for the homeless and those in need in Menlo Park, one of the many ways he gave back to his community. Outside of his dedication to serving his church and community, James was an active member of the Knights of Columbus.
After 25 years in the priesthood, James transitioned to a new role as a probation officer. Around this time, his mother, Adele, required full-time care due to her advancing age. James enlisted the help of Teri (Teresita) to care for her. Witnessing the love and care she gave to Adele, James and Teri formed a strong bond. In 1981 James and Teri joined their lives together, and James wholeheartedly stepped into the role of father for Teri's children: the eldest Ana Leah, followed by Eric, Joy, and the youngest, Rachelle. He embraced each of them as his own. To them, he was more than just a father-he was a mentor, confidant, and an unwavering pillar of strength, deeply enriching their lives and strengthening their family bond.
Together in 1988, James and Teri founded Precious Moments, a residential care facility for the elderly. Driven by James' deep passion for caring for others, particularly the elderly, the business thrived and expanded over the next 30 years. His genuine dedication to providing compassionate care was the foundation of its success. Throughout his life, James found immense joy in both his work and his family, especially with Teri by his side.
On September 23, 2024, James passed away peacefully in his home at the age of 93, surrounded by his wife and daughters. He is survived by his wife Teri; his sister Noreen; his children, Ana Leah, Eric, Joy, and Rachelle; 10 grandchildren; and 7 great-grandchildren. His legacy of love and faith will continue to live on through his family.
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James was a long time CORPUS member.