Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
BORN
1940
DIED
2023
Charles Eskey Obituary
Fly on Nelson, Fly on...
Nelson is and always will be so deeply loved and very missed. A celebration of life will be held "on the deck" at the Eskey home all afternoon Saturday July 1st starting at 1pm. Please bring any photos of Nelson you would like to share while celebrating his amazing life.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Charles Eskey
Sponsored by the family.
Greg Gibson
June 21, 2025
Blue skies brother, think of you often as you continue westward.
Mike Brown
September 18, 2023
So sorry Sherry to hear of Nelson's passing...think of him often ...so many great memories of him, Big Bill McLaren, Gary Nimer and others.
Sheriff Mike and Janet
Bill Carico
July 3, 2023
Dear Sherry, I am very saddened to hear of Nelson passing. He was always an uplifting pilot and a lot of fun to be with. I remember a lot of good times with Nelson and I know he will be missed. My prayers for you and all of his family.
Nancy B. Pollak
July 1, 2023
Sherry, I am so very sorry for your loss. I know how heartbroken you are.
I flew my first trip with Nelson in ROA back in Dec. 1975, he was a FO back then. He was always so nice to fly with.
Then he met you and the rest is history. You two were so good together and for each other.
This is not the end you will meet again someday in Heaven. Until that day comes live life the way Nelson would want you to.
All my love and prayers for peace.
Nancy
Earlene and Jan
June 29, 2023
We have had the pleasure of knowing Nelson for almost seven years. We quickly became backyard neighbors and friends after moving into our house. Many evenings we would join Sherry and Nelson in their backyard, enjoy an adult beverage, and hear wonderful stories from both of them. Nelson shared many stories about growing up on Willoughby Spit, living in Baylake Pines in the early years, family, flying planes, sailing. The stories were filled with laughter...and a few tears. It was obvious to us, Nelson had an amazing life and he loved every minute of it. We will miss him. Much love surrounds Sherry, family, and his many friends. Until we meet again...cheers!
Ken Maupin
June 27, 2023
As a new hire I flew many trips with Nelson. Always learned something from him . Remember he signed in for trips by drawing picture of a key. Another Roanoke legend. One of the best.
Mary (Pitts) Holland
June 27, 2023
So many years ago we were as close as close could be. We had wonderful times, especially wih Nelson and Sherry, Larry and Nancy Holmes and Mickey and me. Lord how I remember those times. I will miss you Nelson, but know you are happy as you fly over the rainbow. God bless you.
Boom Powell
June 27, 2023
Happy day flying the Chipmunk
Tom Primm
June 26, 2023
Saddened to learn of Nelson´s passing. Flew together many times and it was such a pleasure. He was the consummate gentleman and a great "stick".
Richard L Carmichael
June 26, 2023
Deepest condolences Sherry and family.
Honor to have known Nelson for a dozen years or so as fellow volunteer a the Military Aviation Museum and just one heck of a nice guy. Only actually got to fly with him one time for 30 minutes in the Stearman but what a wonderful memory. He was at home in the air. Flown west too soon. Blue skies and tail winds my friend.
Samuel Kern
June 26, 2023
Nelson was a very personable and important Museum fellow Museum Volunteer. His friendly demeanor and dedication added much to the museum volunteer experience.
Brenda knight Ische
June 25, 2023
Many years ago I road with Sherry and Nelson and a few others from Newport News to Norfolk. When the 45 minute drive was over, I felt like I had known and loved them for years. Very special people.
Charlie Hurd
June 25, 2023
RIP former neighbor!
Greg Gibson
June 25, 2023
Sherry, Lee, Bonnie and entire family. I am so sorry to hear of Nelson's passing. Of course everyone knew Nelson's love of aviation and he was certainly one of the best. More important I think, Nelson was as good a friend as one could have. I cherish the time spent with him in our young aviator days, fun days indeed. You are missed my friend, God speed.. Greg
Danny Linkous
June 24, 2023
When I got hired by Piedmont in 1984, I was assigned to Roanoke as a 737 first officer. One of the first captains I flew with was Nelson Eskey. He was one of the captains that, like me, lived to fly. He loved the job he had and he was a sheer joy to fly with. His flying skills were without equal. His personality and attitude made that small cockpit we shared a very enjoyable place. Over the years, we stayed in touch and after we both retired, we continued to talk airplanes, especially vintage types. His devotion to our country and its veterans was always apparent, especially around Memorial Day. I admired Nelson for so many reasons and was glad to call him friend. He surely will be missed.
Colleen Fields
June 24, 2023
Blue skies Nelson
Your Piedmont Silver Eagles Family
Bevin Mann
June 24, 2023
One of nicest pilots I ever had the privilege to work with, and Sherry was equally as nice. Always a gentleman, and so kind. As a new Piedmont filght attendant based in Roanoke, he and Sherry made me feel right at home, and it was an honor to know them (45 yrs ago!).
Ben Gilbert
June 24, 2023
Nelson was one of the YS-11 Captains in Roanoke when I got hired. He was a great guy to fly with, especially for this "New Hire" pilot. A great help getting me settled in as a YS-11 first officer. Not only a mentor but a great friend.
Daryl Rigney
June 24, 2023
Chuck and family, very sorry about the loss of your Dad. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. Know that GOD will comfort you during this time and that you have many friends who are thinking of you. In sympathy, your friends, Daryl and Corinna
Showing 1 - 19 of 19 results
Make a Donation
in Charles Eskey's name
Memorial Events
for Charles Eskey
How to support Charles's loved ones
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor Charles Eskey's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
