Lois Ruth Lewis Esham, 83, of Vanceburg, passed away Friday, September 4, 2026, at Southern Ohio Medical Center in Portsmouth, Ohio, surrounded by her loving family.
She was born in Lewis County, a daughter of the late Floyd and Geneva Lewis.
Lois prided herself on her education and was the first in her family to pursue higher education. She attended Berea College at 16 and graduated in 1963 with a BA in Music. She specialized in piano and organ and served as an accompanist at Christian Baptist Church of Vanceburg for several years.
Lois was so proud of her time at Berea College that she and her loving husband, Charles Thomas “Tom” Esham, were married in the chapel on campus following her graduation in 1963.
After graduating from Berea, Lois began a 38-year career with the Kentucky Department of Social Services. She began as a caseworker, which included home visits to those in need, and later became district manager for Lewis, Carter, Rowan, Mason, and Greenup counties. She later joined the Hearings Branch, where she served as an administrative hearings officer until her retirement in 2001.
In addition to being a full-time wife, mother, and Commonwealth employee, Lois served as office administrator and bookkeeper for the family business, Charles T. Esham Trucking Company.
Lois’ love of education was always evident, and she devoted herself to helping others succeed through education. She served on the Vanceburg Literacy Council for many years. Both of her children went on to earn advanced college degrees, in no small part because of her unconditional encouragement and support.
In 2012, Gov. Steven L. Beshear commissioned Lois a Kentucky Colonel in recognition of her 38 years of service to the Commonwealth and her contributions to education.
Following her retirement, Lois cared for her mother, Geneva, and her aunt, Naomi, until their deaths in 2008 and 2009. She also cared for her daughter, Claire, during an extended illness before her death in July 2026.
Lois spent much of her life caring for others and putting their needs before her own. When she eventually needed assistance at home, that care was provided by her grandson, Thomas, in whom she instilled those same values.
Lois was a loving and wonderful wife, mother, and grandmother who left an indelible imprint on all who knew her.
Survivors include her son, Bryan Todd Esham (Cindy) of Rochester, New York; and her grandson, Thomas Broughton of Vanceburg.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of 32 years, Charles Thomas “Tom” Esham; her daughter, Claire Esham; and her beloved aunt, Naomi Breeze.
Services will be at 1:00 p.m. Friday, September 11, 2026, at Gaydos Funeral Home in Vanceburg with Rev. Wilma Erwin officiating. Burial will follow in Lewis County Memory Gardens at Black Oak.
Friends may visit after 11:00 a.m. Friday, September 11, 2026, at Gaydos Funeral Home.
Condolences may be sent at www.gaydosfh.com.
