Dorothy Jean Caster

Dorothy Jean Caster, age 95, of Albia, IA, passed away on Friday, December 12, 2025, at Good Samaritan Society in Ottumwa. Dorothy was born on August 10, 1930, at home in Williamson, IA, to Thomas and Verla (Estlack) Richardson. She spent her early childhood years there before the family moved to Albia where Dorothy attended school, graduating with the Class of 1948. While working at the King Theatre in Albia, she met Darrell Caster. Following Darrell’s return from service in the United States Army during World War II, the couple was united in marriage on August 10, 1948, and to this union, 4 children, John, Gary, Pam, and Darrell Jr., were born. Dorothy and Darrell shared nearly 54 years of marriage prior to his passing on March 9, 2002. In her early working years, Dorothy was a clerk at Gambles at Albia before going to work at Trophy Glove. She finished her working career at Chicago Rivet where she was a machine operator for 20 years before retiring. Dorothy was very strong in her faith and was a lifelong member of the Trinity United Methodist Church in Albia. She was a member of the Dancing Grannies and enjoyed performing in the Follies with the group. Dorothy was very talented and enjoyed crocheting afghans for her family members and friends. In her younger years, she enjoyed participating in bowling league and was also a Cub Scout leader and den mother when her children were growing up. Dorothy loved the outdoors and she and Darrell spent many summer weekends camping and fishing with friends and family at Lake Rathbun. She also enjoyed traveling and together traveled the United States and Canada on cruises and boat trips throughout their lifetime. Dorothy is survived by 4 children, John (Neva) Caster, Gary (Mary Beth) Caster, Pam (Art) Dicks, and Darrell Jr. (Mary) Caster; 12 grandchildren, Kim (John) Jones, Renae (Trent) Smith, Brenda (Pat) McDonald, Amy (Dave) Podmolik, Chris (Melissa) Caster, Bryan Caster, Brandi (Donny Brown) Caster, Matt (Cami Retzl) Dicks, Marci (Aaron) Kamerick, Grant Caster, Olivia Caster, and Miranda (Jared Halcom) Caster; 20 great grandchildren; 9 great-great grandchildren; 2 nieces, Leann Sloan and Joni Short; and a nephew, Greg Caster. Dorothy is also survived by special friends, Davida Tharp and Jenni and Glen Yenger. She is preceded in death by her husband, Darrell; her parents, Tom and Verla Richardson; 2 brothers, Bill and Tom Richardson; and many special friends during her lifetime. Visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m.-11:00 a.m. on Friday, December 19, 2025, at the Albia Trinity Church, with Dorothy’s family present to greet family and friends. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, December 19, 2025, at the Albia Trinity Church with Pastor Rayl Robbins officiating. Burial will follow services at Oak View Cemetery in Albia. A memorial has been established to the Welcome Home Soldier monument in Albia.

Dorothy Jean Caster

August 10, 1930 - December 12, 2025