Kenneth Lee “Kenny” Esham passed away on April 5, 2026, at the age of 92. He passed on Easter Day, a time that held special meaning of faith and promise.
Born at Briary, Kenneth was a son of Richard Thomas “Dick” Esham and Gladys Estep Esham. He was raised in the hills of Lewis County alongside his siblings, in a family where hard work, faith, and loyalty were simply part of life.
Before entering military service, Kenneth attended a party hosted by his cousin, Elouise Esham. It was there he met Marcella, the woman who would become his wife and lifelong partner. Together they built a home centered on family, resilience, and love — and on Marcella’s cooking, which was known to be something special.
Kenneth proudly served his country in the United States military, stationed in Norfolk, Virginia, and later serving in Korea as a truck mechanic. His mechanical skill and steady determination defined him both in service and throughout his life.
After returning home, he worked tirelessly to provide. He logged timber with a mare named Molly, raised tobacco, worked at a dealership, and eventually opened his own shop. Even after long days, he ran a wrecker at night — doing whatever it took to take care of his family. Providing wasn’t something he spoke about; it was something he simply did.
He was a quiet man, soft-hearted and steady. He was rarely unkind and never needed to be loud to be strong. Faith was important to him, and he remained connected to the Church of Christ in Christian Union throughout his life.
Kenneth loved tractors, especially Minneapolis-Moline tractors, restoring them with patience and pride. He enjoyed taking them to tractor shows with his grandchildren and with his brother Jim. He was often seen in his ball cap, advertising a tractor, and in his signature blue button-down work shirt and pants — dressed for work, whether in the shop or at home. And after a long day, he rarely turned down a bowl of ice cream.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Marcella; his daughter, Lana of Georgetown; his grandsons Clay (Missy) of Flemingsburg, Jerrod of Flatwoods, Jake of Waddy, and Josh (Hannah) of Covington; and extended family, including many great-grandchildren who will carry forward his legacy.
He was preceded in death by his son, John Lee “Johnny” Esham (1989); his granddaughter Kristin Shaw; his great-granddaughter Karys Shaw; his parents, Dick and Gladys Esham; and his siblings Delores Bays, Clayton Eugene Esham, Drennen Clark “DC” Esham, Charles Thomas “Tom” Esham, James Clay “Jim” Esham, and Judith Ann Phillips.
Kenneth lived a long and good life. He worked hard. He loved his family. His story is one of steady strength, quiet devotion, and a life fully lived.
He will be deeply missed and long remembered.
Services will be at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, April 11, 2026, at Gaydos Funeral Home, 159 Second Street in Vanceburg, with Bro. Scott Cummins officiating. Burial will be in Lewis County Memory Gardens at Black Oak.
Friends may call after 10:00 a.m. Saturday at the funeral home.
Condolences may be sent to the family at www.gaydosfh.com.
