James Edward Eslinger

James “Thumbs” Eslinger, 74, of Kingsport, passed away Wednesday, October 30, 2019, at his residence. He was born May 10, 1945, in Kingsport, to the late Clyde and Lora Eslinger.James was a loving and caring husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. He enjoyed NASCAR, dirt track racing and family trips to the beach, Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, TN. He also enjoyed gardening and was an avid U-T football fan.He was a retired millwright employed with Fluor Daniels for thirty-five years.James attended Evangel Worship Center and was a member of the Fraternal Order of the Eagles # 3141.In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a special cousin, Eileen Williams.Those left to cherish his memory are his loving wife of thirty-nine years, Pam Patrick Eslinger; children, James Eslinger (Gina), Amanda Cooper (Chuck), Matthew Eslinger (Chelsey), Mikah Eslinger (Chrissy), Meghan Eslinger and special friend, Brandon Shepard; grandchildren, Jimmy (Lauren), Christopher and special friend, Jess, Kelsie (Logan), Katie, Daniel, Brayden, Brynley, Riley and Bailey; great-grandchildren, Jamen and Lila; special cousin, Ellen Ruth Christian; fur baby, Roxy.The family will receive friends Saturday, November 2, 2019, from 5:00-6:45 pm in the chapel of Oak Hill Funeral Home. A Celebration of Life Service will follow at 7:00 pm with Pastor Charles Bogle and Pastor James Hagy officiating.A Graveside Service will be held Sunday, November 3, 2019, at 12:00 pm at Oak Hill Memorial Park. Sons and grandsons will serve as pallbearers.In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Pam to assist with funeral expenses.The family extends their sincere appreciation to the staffs of Avalon Hospice and Advantage Home Health for their compassion and assistance during James’ final days.To leave an online condolence for the family please visit www.oakhillfh.comThe care of James Eslinger and his family has been entrusted to the staff of Oak Hill Funeral & Cremation Services.Read Obituary