Dr. Lee G. Esprit, Jr., age 88, of Xenia, went Home to be with the Lord Tuesday, May 20, 2025 at Hospice of Dayton. He was born November 17, 1936 in Port Arthur, Texas, the son of Lee G. and Velma (Linton) Esprit.

He is survived by his wife, Delores A. (Martin) Esprit, whom he married August 10, 1957; daughters: Sylvia G. Kelley; Anita Y. Jefferson; Karen D. (Cleo) Watts; and Velma (Byron) Garnes; sons: Lee G. (Jane) Esprit III, Michael W. Esprit, Reginald F. Esprit; Darryl J. Esprit; Jonathan K. Esprit and Maj. Bryan M. Esprit; 19 grandchildren; 20 great grandchildren; and a great great granddaughter. He was preceded in death by son, Reginald F. Esprit.

Dr. Esprit filled many valued and distinguished roles at Central State University, where he became a full professor of education in 1984, and after 41 years of service, he retired in 2013.  In 2016, Dr. Esprit was appointed as a Professor Emeritus for his contributions to Central State University.

Dr. Esprit retired from Central State University, where he had been a professor in the College of Education. He graduated from Lincoln High School, Port Arthur, Texas and earned his Bachelor Degree from Prairie View A&M University. He continued his education at Oklahoma State University receiving his Master and Doctorate Degrees. He was a member of the Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. Delta Zeta Chapter and the Knights of Columbus. Dr. Esprit was a member of St. Brigid Catholic Church. He enjoyed reading and spending time with his family.

Dr. Esprit served two concurrent terms on the Xenia City Commission from January 1996 until December 31, 2007. He served as president of City Council in 1998, 1999, 2004 and 2006, and as deputy mayor in 1997.

Memorial contributions may be made to Special Olympics, 921 Eastwind Dr. Suite 120, Westerville, OH 43081.

Visitation will be held 5-7 PM Tuesday, May 27th at McColaugh Funeral Home, 826 N. Detroit St., Xenia. Time of reflection will begin 6:30 PM Tuesday at the funeral home. Mass of Christian Burial will be held 10 AM Wednesday, May 28th at St. Brigid Catholic Church, 312 Fairgrounds Road, Xenia. Burial to follow in St. Brigid Cemetery, Xenia. Online expressions of sympathy may be made to the family at www.mccolaughfuneralhome.com.

Online condolences may be made to the family at www.mccolaughfuneralhome.com.