Wiley Eldridge Custer

Wiley Eldridge Custer, 86, of Richmond, Texas, passed away peacefully at his home on February 2, 2024.

Eldridge was born in Beeville, Texas to Wiley Rix and Avis Josephine Custer on July 25, 1937. He married Karla Luise Fels,on March 12, 1960 in Baumholder, Germany. He graduated from Rice University with a bachelor’s and master’s degree in economics and went on to become an executive with Exxon. Eldridge served in the U.S. Army and was also a Freemason, Shriner and Knights Templar and member of the Baptist faith.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Wiley Rix Custer and Avis Josephine Custer; and his sister, Mary Lou Heard.

Survivors include his wife of nearly 64 years, Karla Custer; sons, Martin (Julia) Custer and Stephan (Leah) Custer; grandchildren, Alexander (Monica), Emily (Alan), Avery, Natalie, Elizabeth and Maxwell; and great-granddaughter, Katelyn.

Visitation will be held from 1 to 2 p.m. on Saturday, February 10, 2024, at First Baptist Church in Beeville with the funeral service officiated by Rev. Greg Traylor at 2 p.m. Burial will follow at Glenwood Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Klaus Kuhlmann, Alexander Custer, Emily Zuefeldt, Alan Zuefeldt, Avery Custer, Natalie Custer, Elizabeth Custer and Maxwell Custer.