James Carleton Espy

Carleton Espy, aged 70, entered into rest on January 16, 2026. He was born in Rome, Georgia, and grew up in Americus, Georgia. He moved to Pensacola in the Fall of 1980 and joined the Navy-he never left.

The Espy family maintained a farm in the 1960's, and Carleton learned to drive a tractor when he was six years old. He was often seen by motorists as he drove from one farm lot to another. Years later his family harvested timber and he drove the pulpwood truck. He used it for transportation to high school until it was frowned upon by school authorities and discontinued. He was not shy, and no challenge was too great.

He obtained an Associate Degree from Georgia Southwestern in Americus where he was the "big man" on campus-president of the student union-he made things happen.

He transferred to the University of Georgia and graduated in May of 1979 with a Bachelor's Degree in Business. He went to work at Scotty's Lumber in Athens, Georgia, where within a year he was top salesman in his territory. He left Scotty's to become a manufacturing representative for Andersen Windows and Doors; he was an expert on anything Andersen. His last position was working in outside sales for Smith Doors and Windows located in Panama City, working from home.

Because of his love for music and everything entertaining, he, along with his wife, Dani, created Hatman Music and he performed as a DJ for many weddings, rehearsals, birthdays, anniversaries, reunions, holiday parties and anything surrounding a celebration of any kind. For years many people knew him only as Hatman, they didn't know his real name. He was never seen without a hat on his head.

He was an avid University of Georgia Bulldog fan, and was president of the local game-watching club in Pensacola, Florida, for several years. Although he stepped down from the presidency, he remained active within the group and acted as host at all of the game-watch gatherings. He made newcomers feel welcomed and the regulars glad to be there.

He loved the Pensacola area's bays and waterways; sailing and being around the water gave him solace.

As a husband, he was a soul-mate and best friend, sharing values and emotions one does when one knows someone by heart. As a father he was always supportive, full of joy and encouragement, exemplifying strength through his presence and in showing deep love for his children. He supported and shared in their ministry and faith in Jesus. As a grandfather (Papa C), he was a goof, and loved Jolie Rae abundantly.

He is preceded in death by his father, James S. Espy, and sister, Elissa Duncan. Survivors include his wife, Danille (Dani) Espy; sons Jarod Espy and Jonathan Espy (Leslie and granddaughter Jolie Rae); mother Jocelyn Espy; sisters Cherilyn Guth (Buddy) and Elaine Espy (Diana Styles); brother-in-law Rick Duncan; and uncle John Espy. There are cousins too numerous to mention who assisted in his growing-up and they are remembered here as well.

Services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, January 23, 2026, at Pensacola Memorial Gardens. Visitation is from 10:00 a.m. until service time at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to:

Habitat for Humanity

285 Peachtree Center Avenue, NE

Suite 2700

Atlanta, Georgia 30303

(800) habitat - (800) 422-4828 - or (229) 924-6935

Or on-line at www.habitat.org