He was born on August 28, 1919 to John G. and Grace M. Essary in Tazewell. He had lived in Lakeland since 1957. He retired from Publix after 26 years of service as a truck driver. He was also a WWII Army Veteran. He enjoyed fishing and quiet times at home with his family. He had a giving spirit and was always there for friends and family needing help. In 2002, without fanfare, he made several generous charitable donations, including one to a Lakeland homeless shelter. The same year, he provided funds to build a new orphanage in Hunan, China in honor of his two granddaughters who were adopted from China as infants. He also set up an adoption grant program through the Children's Home Society in Tallahassee to assist families adopting from China. He was preceded in death by his wife of 47 years, Betty Packett Essary and his 7 brothers and sisters.
Survivors include his daughter, Linda C. Essary, Tallahassee; two granddaughters, Kayla and Kari Essary, Tallahassee; four nieces; a beloved companion, Lucille Dekle; a host of longtime friends.
The memorial service will be held at 11 a.m., Thursday, February 17 in the chapel at Lakeland Memorial Gardens. A military honors ceremony will follow the service near the mausoleum. Family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, February 16 at Lakeland Memorial Gardens (863) 686-2125.
Post a Comment
