Philip Stephen Castleberry

Philip Stephen Castleberry, 45, passed away peacefully on Friday, July 17, 2026, surrounded by his loved ones after a courageous year-long battle with lymphoma.

Born in Zachary, Louisiana, Philip spent his childhood in Central before making his home in Denham Springs. He was a 1999 graduate of Starkey Academy and proudly served in the Louisiana Army National Guard.

Philip was a loving husband, devoted father, dedicated firefighter, and loyal friend. At the St. George Fire Department, he dedicated his professional life to serving and protecting others with honor and compassion.

Of all the roles he held, being a father was the one Philip treasured most. He loved his sons, Caleb and Beau, beyond measure and found his greatest happiness in watching them grow and making memories together.

An avid outdoorsman, Philip loved hunting and spending time in the woods and on the water with family, friends, and his faithful canine hunting companion, Ruby. He especially treasured early mornings in the duck blind, where the quiet of nature brought him peace and created some of his most cherished moments.

Philip was preceded in death by his mother, Elizabeth "Beth" Dorsey Castleberry.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 17 years, Melissa Dufour Castleberry, and their children, Caleb and Beau, who were the greatest joy and pride of his life. Philip is also survived by his father, Dennis Castleberry (Rachel); his brother, Michael Castleberry (Carrie); his sister, Laura Castleberry; his father- and mother-in-law, Paul and Linda Dufour; his sister-in-law, Angela Williams (Heath); his nephews, Dylan Castleberry, Jacob Castleberry, and Eli Williams; his nieces, Taylor Townsend, Chloe Bowman, and Hazel Williams; along with numerous extended family members, and cherished friends.

Though his time with us was far too short, Philip leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and faithfulness that will continue to live on through all who knew and loved him.

The family would especially like to thank the doctors, nurses, and entire staff at Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center for their compassionate care, love, and support throughout Philip’s cancer battle. They would also like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the B6 nursing staff at Baton Rouge General Hospital for the exceptional care, kindness, and comfort they provided to Philip and his family.

Relatives and friends are invited to join the family for the visitation at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, 865 Hatchell Lane, Denham Springs, on Friday, July 24, 2026, from 10:00 AM until the funeral mass at 12:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center.