James E. Eskew Jr.

Jay was born on May 30, 1953, in Van Nuys, California, to Betty and James Eskew. The Eskew family relocated to Dayton, Ohio, where Jay spent his childhood, graduating from Chaminade High School in 1971.  After graduation, Jay moved to West Palm Beach, Florida, where he married Nancy Sakal, also of Dayton, on December 3, 1974.  Starting out as a carpenter, Jay became a project manager, building residential and commercial properties throughout South Florida and elsewhere.  He took great pride in his projects, which included a high-rise office building on Brickell Avenue in Miami, the Riverside Hotel on Las Olas Boulevard in Fort Lauderdale, and the Spanish Ambassador’s residence in Washington, D.C. 

Jay was a lifelong lover of music, and counted several musicians among his dearest friends.  He enjoyed a wide array of musical styles and traditions, including old time folk and blues, country, rock and roll, and everything in between.  He was also an astute follower of politics and contributed to a number of candidates and causes that were dear to his heart.  He read widely and was particularly well versed in history.  Many of Jay’s most treasured moments were shared with friends and family in the Florida Keys.  He also cherished every moment spent with the dogs and cats that he and Nancy welcomed into their home over their 46 years of marriage.

Jay is preceded in death by his mother, Betty Eskew, and brother, Carey Eskew.  He is survived by his wife, Nancy Sakal; his father, James Eskew Sr.; his sister, Christa Johnson; and his brothers Travis, Mike, Scott, and Sean Eskew.  He also leaves behind a number of beloved nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be from 2:00-4:00 on Sunday, December 27, at Horizon Funeral Home in Lighthouse Point, Florida.  A brief service will be held at 3:00 PM. Due to COVID, services are limited to 40 people. However the services will be livestreamed, to access the livestream visit https://www.fredhunters.com/page/live-webcasting and enter the password funerallivestream1#. 

The family wishes to extend their sincere thanks to the many doctors and nurses who have helped them through Jay’s time of illness, particularly the home health nurses who became like family.  Your kindness will never be forgotten.