Mr. James Richard "Dick" Esco

Mr. James Richard "Dick" Esco, age 82, of Barnesville, a beloved father, grandfather, and friend, passed away on Saturday, July 19, 2025, at Brightmoor Hospice in Griffin, Georgia.

Born on September 2, 1942, at St. Mary's Hospital in Athens, Georgia, Dick lived a life rich in service and dedication to his family, profession, and community. Growing up in Atlanta, he spent many childhood summers staying with his grandparents on their farm, which gave him an early appreciation for agriculture and farming. He was a graduate of Gordon High School in Decatur, Georgia, class of 1961, Dick furthered his education at East Tennessee State College before his honorable military service in the U.S. Navy. Dick's life also included a commendable career with Georgia Farm Bureau since 1972, and during that time, served as Agency Manager of Lamar, Butts, and Jasper Counties.

Dick's commitment to his community was reflected in his dedicated service, and though he was not one to boast, his accomplishments and integrity spoke volumes. This experience shaped his character and sense of responsibility, which he carried into every facet of his life.

Dick has served the community in several rewarding and enriching capacities including: Past President and member of the Barnesville Kiwanis Club; Past President of the Johnstonville Community Club; Served as District Chairman and on Board of Directors of Flint River Council Boy Scouts of America and recipient of the 2021 Golden Eagle Award; Organized and started the Lamar County 4-H Livestock Club and served on its Board for 12 years; Past President and also served on the Lamar County 4-H Volunteer Leaders Association; Chairman of the Mid-Georgia Cattleman’s Steer and Heifer Show Committee and served on the Board of Directors; Appointed in 1982 by Governor George Busbee and confirmed by President Ronald Reagan to serve on the Board of Selective Service System, representing Lamar County and Georgia Region #10; Barnesville-Lamar County Chamber of Commerce Past President and served on its Board of Directors for over 30 years; Served as Barnesville Buggy Days Annual Festival Chairman, known as “Mr. Buggy Days”, for more than 30 years; Appointed by Governor Joe Frank Harris in 1983 to serve as an aid to the Governor’s staff; Appointed by Congressman Richard Ray to serve on his Agricultural Advisory Committee; Appointed by Governor Zell Miller to be Lieutenant Colonel, Aide De Camp, Governor’s staff; Member of Grand Lodge of Georgia F&AM member for 50 years; Member of Barnesville American Legion Post #25; Appointed and elected Chairman of the Lamar County Agricultural and Livestock Exposition Authority, Selected as Outstanding Citizen of the Year for Barnesville – Lamar County in 1997; Served as Treasure of Lamar County Farm Bureau Board of Directors; and served as President of Georgia Farm Bureau Retired Employee's Association.

Dick had a passion for life that was reflected in his hobbies which included collecting classic cars and attending car shows with his brother, Phil. He had a special place in his heart for attending almost every Indy 500 Race since the late 1960s along with his family and friends. He found great enjoyment in dancing, traveling, cooking, and sharing food with those he loved.

Over the years, Dick cherished his family and the memories they created together. His legacy will live on through them where he delighted in supporting his children and grandchildren through their passions and pursuits. He loved watching his grandchildren at dance and music performances along with livestock shows and events. He is survived by his son, Mark (Stacey) Esco of Thomaston; his daughter, Kitty (Phil) Spivey of Thomasville; and his daughter, Mandy (Russ) Moon of Comer. Dick took immense pride in his five grandchildren: Wren Spivey, Maggie Moon, Riley Moon, Willow Spivey, and Beau Moon. He is also survived by his nephews, Jimmy (Stacy) Esco and Ricky Esco.

Dick was preceded in death by his parents, James H. "Jim" Esco and Sara Nell Crowe Esco, and his brother, William Phillip "Phil" Esco.

Funeral services for Dick will be held on Tuesday, July 22, at 2:00 PM, at Fletcher-Day Funeral Home. Rev. Leighton Cooley will officiate. Following the service, he will be laid to rest at South View Cemetery with military honors. The family will receive friends from 6:00 until 8:00 PM on Monday evening, July 21, at Fletcher-Day Funeral Home. 

Flowers will be accepted, or those desiring may make memorial contributions in his memory to the Building a Better Barnesville-Lamar Fund, 577 Mulberry Street, Suite 1600, Macon, GA 31201 or by visiting cfcga.org/barnesville-lamar-community-foundation.

Fletcher-Day Funeral Home of Thomaston is in charge of all arrangements. Condolences and remembrances may be expressed at www.fletcherdayfuneralhome.com.