Howard Cornelious Esco Sr.

Howard C. Esco Sr., a devoted father, grandfather and great grandfather, passed away on August 23, 2025 at the age of 97. Howard was born on June 18, 1928, in Colbert, GA to the late Hal H. and Leight C. Esco. Along with his parents, he is preceded in death by a daughter, Surecia E. Riley; brothers, Aubrey and Grady Esco; sisters, Geraldine Brooks and Grace Francis; and a niece, Georgia Ann Peterman.

Outside of work, Howard enjoyed nascar racing, watching football and the Atlanta Braves. Howard served his country during WWII in Italy and Germany as an ambulance driver. He was discharged and later started a logging company, Esco Logging.

Howard is survived by his children: Maria (Scott) Harshbarger, Angie (William) Holliday, and Howard C. Esco Jr.; grandchildren: Karen, Kevin, Jake, Jennifer, Patrick, Wesley, Amanda, Brittany, Brandon, and Jacob; great grandchildren: Ethan, Savannah, Olivia, Evangeline, Hunter, Scarlett, and Paisley; and a sister: Hazel Graham.

The family will receive friends on Thursday, August 28, 2025, at Lord and Stephens Funeral Home, Athens, GA, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM. A graveside service will follow at Pentecost Chapel Holliness Church in Lexington, GA with Chaplain Benson Bottoms officiating.

Pallbearers will be grandsons: Jake and Patrick Riley, Kevin Holliday, Brandon and Jacob Esco; and Jason Shonhor.

The family would like to say special thanks to Dr. Stephen Lucas, Miss Kristy Williams, the ladies at Avery Village and Family Hospice for the special care and love they showed their father.

Flowers will be accepted, or donations can be made to St. Jude or Pentecost Chapel in Lexington, GA.

Lord and Stephens Funeral Home, East, Athens, GA is in charge of arrangements. www.lordandstephens.com