John Joseph Esposito

John Joseph Esposito passed away on July 7, 2024, in Atlanta, Georgia, at the age of 88, after a long and courageous fight with lung cancer. He was born on April 6, 1936, in New Haven, CT, to the late Fred and Dorothy Esposito. He leaves behind a legacy of faith in God, devotion to family, and passion for living. He was committed to hard work, the well-being of others, and the achievement of his goals. To any pursuit John chose to devote his time, he gave it his all.  He was admired and loved by many, and he will be greatly missed.

John is survived by his children, Diana R. Esposito (Ken Bingman) Gina Esposito McGowan, John J. Esposito, Jr. (Susan), Michael T. Esposito (Joanna), his grandchildren, Andrea Luedecker (Jason Davis), Lotte Kubota (Michael), Matthew McGowan (Lily Zhao), Maria, Chiara, and Anastasia Esposito, and his great-grandchildren, Madison, Michael, and McKenzie Kubota, Scarlett Davis, and Lucas McGowan.  He is also survived by a number of nieces, nephews, grand-nieces and grand-nephews. He is predeceased by his sister, Sally Sapiro, his brother, Fred Esposito, and, most recently, his beloved wife of 67 years, Frances Ida Esposito.

John grew up in East Haven, Connecticut, close to the Momauguin Shoreline. Perhaps as part of his Castellammare di Stabia Napoli ancestry, or just from fishing off the rocks with his father, he developed a deep regard for the sea.  Throughout his life, John loved to cast his line into the ocean, and, most often, his catch was bountiful. 

John graduated from East Haven High School in 1954, received his Bachelor of Arts degree with honors from the University of Connecticut in 1958, and his Doctor of Jurisprudence degree from the University of Michigan Law School in 1961. After attending the University of Virginia Law School for the United States Army, he served in the Judge Advocate General Corps where he rose to the rank of captain. He became the Chief of Military Justice at Fort Ord, CA, and received a United States Army Commendation Medal in 1964. 

Following his service in the Army, John served as the prosecuting attorney for the Eighth Circuit Court in West Haven, CT.  He was the town attorney for North Branford, and he also served on the Board of Tax Review, the Library Board, and the Democratic Town Committee.  John was a member of the Connecticut Bar and the American and Trial Lawyers’ Associations.  He was a volunteer for the CT Bar Association’s Pro Bono Summary Case Program and the Youth and the Law Program. He served as chairman of the town leukemia drive and coached youth football and baseball teams.  John was the recipient of the Distinguished Graduate Award presented by the East Haven High School Alumni Association.

John’s law practice evolved into family practice when his wife, Frances, became his office manager, and his oldest son and daughter became lawyers and joined the firm. Two generations later, his grandson became a member of the firm.

In 2002, John and Frances fully retired and moved to Amelia Island, FL.  The slower-paced life allowed John time to pursue his interests in gardening, golfing, and fishing.  The couple enjoyed being active members of the Amelia Island community. John served as a legal advisor on the Amelia Island Golf Club committee, and he loved to play in Amelia Island golf events with his son, John, his wife, and his great friends. 

John was a strong believer in the power of education to enhance all aspects of one’s life. He instilled a love of learning in his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.  He was an ardent reader, critical thinker, and never shied away from questioning, analyzing, and solving complicated problems. During his retirement, John spent time visiting Jacksonville, FL area high schools to assist students in the completion of their financial forms and college applications. 

John and Frances were truly lifetime companions. They traveled widely, in the states, visiting their children’s homes, and internationally, discovering the sights, sounds, and flavors of other cultures. They golfed at St. Andrews, met the Pope in Rome, and stood at the DMZ in Korea.  John shared his interest in history with Frances, and together they studied the 20th century conflicts by visiting historical sites and museums all over the world. John was an enthusiastic sports fan, and he faithfully followed his alma maters’ teams. He held the UConn Huskies Ladies Basketball Team in the highest esteem.

John and Frances were long time members of St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Fernandino Beach, FL. In 2006, the couple celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary by renewing their marriage vows in a beautiful church ceremony. John was a devoted and loving husband and cared for Frances unwaveringly during her battle with cancer, and, in later years, her struggle with dementia.  John undertook his own cancer treatment with the tenacious desire to survive, comfort, and support Frances. John’s life example, guidance, and generosity enriched the lives of all who knew him. He will always serve as an inspiration and a hero in the hearts of his family.

The family will receive friends Wednesday evening, July 17, 2024 from 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. at Fischer Funeral Care at 3742 Chamblee Dunwoody Road with the Rosary beginning at 8:00 pm.  The Funeral Mass will be Thursday morning, July 18th, at 11:00 am at Holy Cross Catholic Church at 3773 Chamblee Tucker Road.  Graveside Services will be held Friday morning, July 19th at 11:00 am at Georgia National Cemetery in Canton, GA.

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