James Wallace Esler, Jr.

James Wallace Esler, Jr., of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, and formerly of Allentown,
Pennsylvania, died on February 20, 2025.
He was born in Washington, D.C. on December 7,1933 to James Wallace Esler, Sr. and
Virginia Lillian (McGlasson) Esler.
He was a graduate of the Virginia Military Institute, and the University of Pennsylvania’s
School of Medicine where he was inducted into the international medical fraternity, Phi
Chi, and led Penn’s chapter in his senior year. After completing his medical training in
anesthesia, he served two years in the U.S. Army at West Point as an anesthesiologist
at its hospital and was honorably discharged with the rank of captain. For two years, he
served on the faculty of the University of North Carolina’s School of Medicine, after
which he joined a private practice at Sacred Heart Hospital in Allentown, Pennsylvania.
In the ensuing years, he also served as an adjunct professor at the University of
Pennsylvania‘s School of Medicine, Chief of Staff at Sacred Heart Hospital, and
President of the Lehigh Valley Medical Society. In his spare time and later in retirement,
he enjoyed a variety of hobbies; pursuing interests in photography, classical music,
travel, and World War II history. He was a mason in Lehigh Lodge 326.
He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Barbara Riegle Esler, his daughter, Beth Myers
(Joseph); his son, Bill; and three grandchildren – Nathalie, Christopher, and Viviane.
Survivors also include his brother- and sister-in-law, Dan and Jill, who the immediate
family thanks for all their kindness and support shown to Jim in his final years.
Jim will be remembered by his family and friends as a gracious gentleman; one who
possessed a keen sense of humor, and a knack for dispensing kindness and wisdom in
equal measure. For those closest to him, he will be greatly missed for his generosity as
well as his steady, thoughtful, and supportive guidance.
A private burial will be held at the convenience of the family.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the academic
scholarship fund at the Virginia Military Institute at VMI Alumni Agencies, P.O. Box 932,
Lexington, VA., 24450, or online at Ways to Give - VMI Alumni Agencies

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