Celeste Cantrell Obituary

On Wednesday, January 22, 2025 our beloved mother Celeste Brewer Cantrell passed away at the age of 76. She was a humble and selfless person who always put others first, especially when it came to helping children. Celeste was passionate about education, and her work touched countless lives.

After graduating from Paschal High School, Celeste attended Texas Tech University before transferring to Texas Christian University (TCU), where she earned a Bachelor's in Psychology. She worked for The Gladney Center adoption agency, where she helped place many children with loving families, staying in touch with them for years afterward. We have cherished memories of receiving their Christmas cards, which she proudly displayed on the refrigerator.

Celeste later became an educator for Fort Worth ISD, continuing her mission to support children's growth, both academically and personally. She encouraged students to get involved in extracurricular activities, especially Whiz Quiz. Celeste retired from Fort Worth ISD in 2018 after a dedicated career of 23 years, leaving behind a lasting legacy in the lives of her students.

The greatest joy of Celeste's life was her grandchildren. She was incredibly proud of each of them and had a significant influence on their educational pursuits. Her encouragement inspired many of them to continue their studies beyond high school, and today, her legacy lives on in their accomplishments:

*Braxton graduated from Texas A&M with a Bachelor's in Materials Science and Engineering.

*Kaitlyn is pursuing a degree in Nutrition Science Dietetics at Tarleton State.

*Madyson is pursuing a degree in Speech Language Pathology at the University of North Texas.

*Leia is excited to begin her educational journey with kindergarten next year.

*Indya is pursuing a certification in UI/UX at the University of Texas.

*Joe graduated from the University of Texas with a Bachelor's in Business Sports Management.

*Drew is pursuing a degree in Psychology at the University of North Texas.

*Bria is enrolled in the Ogle School for Cosmetology.

No matter what path they chose, Celeste always encouraged them to do their best and reach for their dreams.

In keeping with her wishes, Celeste's body was donated to the UNT Health Science Center in Fort Worth to support the advancement of medical education. Even in death, she continued to give to others.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Billy Gene Brewer Sr. and Charlene Brewer; her brother, Billy Gene Brewer Jr.; and her brother-in-law, Don Hoffman.

Celeste is survived by her sister, Sue Hoffman; son, Alex Cantrell and wife Ashley of Fort Worth; daughter, Peyton Berry and husband Jeremiah of Bluff Dale; stepchildren, Rachelle Brehm of Valley View, Sherry Brehm and husband John of Gainesville, and Craig Brehm and wife Shannon of Winnsboro; grandchildren Madyson, Leia, Braxton, Kaitlyn, Janey, JT, Toby, Indya, Joe, Drew, Bria, and Brandon; and great grandchildren Kamryn and Kallie. She is also survived by three aunts, numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and many close friends she considered family.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to The Welman Project (thewelmanproject.org) or Save A Turtle (save-a-turtle.org)

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, February 8th 1:00 PM at:

Cowboy Church of Tarrant County

1685 Lacy Drive

Fort Worth, TX 76177