James "Eslie" Durst

The middle son of 3, Eslie was preceded in death by older brother John Melvin Durst, Jr. of Sacramento, and will be greatly missed by his younger brother and best friend Lawrence “Alton” Durst of Hanford.

Eslie grew up in Laton surrounded by many aunts, uncles and cousins. The Durst Clan is a close knit family, and first cousins were like siblings. One of Eslie’s greatest joys was attending the annual Durst Family Reunion.

In 1966, Eslie married the love of his life, Susan “Suzi” Sutphin Durst. They soon started a family with daughter Leslie arriving in late 1967 and son Daniel in 1971. They would have been celebrating their 59th Anniversary this September.

In the early years he worked as a restaurateur and they lived in many places throughout California. Later, they moved to Kerrville, Texas where he owned both a restaurant and a construction company.

As his parents aged, it was clear that he was needed in California, and the family moved back and made their home in Laton, and then Fresno. He and Suzi had the honor of caring for his parents in their home; and saying goodbye to Melvin in 1995 and Faye in 2008.

Eslie was an avid musician and his greatest joy was playing music with friends and family. In his college days he was in the local band The Hunted. Eslie, Suzi and the kids traveled for many years ministering in Churches all over the United States, as well as leading praise and worship in their home Church. As an ordained minister, he took great joy in sharing the Word of God with others.

His love for the Lord permeated every part of his life, and was reflected in the kindness and respect he showed others. Eslie never met a stranger. He was well known in the shops and places he frequented, making many acquaintances and friends along the way. He believed in the good in others, and always looked for it. He loved the United States of America, the Fresno State Bulldogs, and the Golden State Warriors.

Eslie is survived by his wife Suzi, brother Alton, sister in law Sally Durst, sister in law Carole Reis and brother and sister in law Steve & Joanne Sutphin, children Leslie & Dale Gillespie, Daniel & Jonna Durst, and child of the heart Christina Roup, 10 grandchildren/spouses, 6 great grandchildren/spouses, 2 great great grandchildren, and many cousins, nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, Eslie’s family has asked that donations be made to: GLOW Theater Company: c/o Daniel Durst, 2382 Prescott Ave, Fresno, CA 93619 -OR- Laton Church of the Brethren: 3090 E. Mt. Whitney Ave, PO Box 457, Laton, CA 93724.