Tom "Popeye" Essex

Mr. Thomas Henry Essex, age 74, of Ellijay, Georgia, passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 15, 2026.

Tom was born on December 18, 1951, at Mary Immaculate Hospital in Queens, New York, to the late Henry Thomas Essex and Joan Burkhart Essex.

Tom was an avid sports enthusiast throughout his life. He was a devoted fan of the New York Yankees, the New York Giants, and the Georgia Bulldogs. His passion for athletics extended beyond fandom, as he spent many years serving as a referee and umpire for park and recreation leagues, as well as high school and collegiate sports. He especially enjoyed rugby and golf, and he cherished the freedom of the open road, spending over 55 years riding his motorcycle and being a part of multiple motorcycle groups.

Tom earned his MBA and built a successful and fulfilling career in the medical device industry, which provided him with the opportunity to travel extensively around the world. He approached both his professional and personal life with curiosity, dedication, and a genuine appreciation for new experiences.

Known for his infectious laugh and warm spirit, Tom found great joy in life's simple pleasures-sharing good food, listening to music, and spending time with those he loved. He often remarked that he had lived a great life, a sentiment that reflected his gratitude and outlook. Tom was also a proud member of the Patriot Guard Riders.

Above all, Tom deeply loved his wife, Mel, and treasured the life they built together. He found great happiness in their time spent on the farm, especially with their beloved dogs, Blue, Bucky, and Lolly. He held a deep affection for his family and friends and always valued the moments he shared with them. He always adored and loved spending time with his step-granddaughter, Cecelia Rose Crescenti (C).

Tom is preceded in death by his parents, Henry Thomas Essex and Joan Burkhart Essex; Step-son, Joshua Blake Crescenti, and his mother-in-law, Opal Jane Weaver.

Tom is survived by his wife, Melanie Gay Weaver Essex; step-son, Jonathon Lee Crescenti (Becca); step-granddaughter, Cecelia Rose Crescenti; brother and sister-in-law, Robert and Anne Marie Essex, and Donald Henry Essex; sister and brother in-law, Joanmarie and Dennis Kiernan; nieces and nephews, Dominick Gennaro (Katie), Nicholas Gennaro (Michele), Christopher Gennaro, Carolann Gennaro (Brandon), Taylor Essex, Katie Drinkard (Steven), and Jack Kiernan; great nieces and nephews, DJ, Kellen, Jace, Sage, Lincoln, and Madeline, and his pets, Blue, Bucky, and Lolly.

Tom's final wishes were to be cremated; no services are planned at this time.

In Lieu of flowers, a donation may be made to the Patriot Guard Riders at https://patriotguard.org/ or to his cousin-in-law Pam's shelter:

Lost Dog and Cat Rescue at www.lostdogrescue.org or 6801 Wilson Blvd. Falls Church, VA 22044 attention Pam McAlwee.in memory of Mr. Essex.

You can scroll down to view the video tribute.

Bernhardt Funeral Home of Ellijay, GA is entrusted with these arrangements.

Memorial Donation