Philip "Sonny" Martin Castex

Born May 30, 1947, in St. Martinville, Louisiana, Philip Castex graduated from Kashmere High School in Houston.

 

He began his working life at the Armco Steel and later devoted the majority of his career to the Houston Independent School District, working in maintenance and ultimately serving as an equipment repairer when he retired. Philip was known for his technical expertise. He earned numerous certifications, taking pride in teaching classes and sharing his knowledge with others.

 

Endlessly curious and a voracious reader, Philip had a lifelong love of learning. Animals and country living brought him particular joy. Over the years he shared his land with dogs, horses, cows, and even chickens — until one day his little girl left the coop open and they all escaped.

 

A good chair, in almost any room, could become the setting for a nap, and he appreciated simple pleasures: good company, shared meals, and easy conversation.

 

Philip took great pride in his grandchildren and followed their lives closely. He was proud of their accomplishments and talked about them with tremendous joy to his friends.

 

He is survived by his daughter, Sonya Kix, and her husband, Paul; his grandchildren, Harper, Marshall, and Walker; his brothers, Dennis Castex and Herman Castex and Herman’s wife, Susan; his chosen family, Tiffany McCord and Richelle Reyna; as well as nieces, nephews, cousins and many friends who felt like family. 

 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Theresa and Ceza Castex, and his sister, Rita McKissic.

 

The family is planning a Houston celebration of life service at a later date. Philip was cremated, and over the coming year his daughter and grandchildren will scatter his remains along the East Coast in places by their home which they believe he would have enjoyed, honoring his love of quiet comforts and just being along for the ride.

 

This wonderful photo that captures Philip so perfectly is courtesy his good friend Barry Taylor.