Obituary of Louis R. Esposito

Louis R. Esposito, 89, of Freehold Township passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family on Sunday, June 28, 2026. A proud Brooklyn native and a Brooklyn Dodgers fan (until they left), Lou founded, with his brother, Mario, Brooklyn Lumber in 1967 and led the company until his retirement in 2006. In 2008 he relocated to Riviera at Freehold, where he became a well-known and beloved member of the community — quick with a joke, always ready for a card game, and generous with his time. Lou also owned Thoroughbred racehorses that competed at Monmouth Park and Aqueduct. He enjoyed traveling, especially trips to Saratoga in August and frequent trips to Atlantic City and Fox Woods and going out to dinner. Lou could always pick a winner.

A devout man who attended daily Mass, Lou treasured Sundays spent with family — watching football and eating macaroni and his wife's homemade gravy. He will be remembered for his warmth, humor, generosity and steadfast devotion to family and faith.

He was predeceased by his siblings, George, Anthony, Roger and Babe. Louis is survived by his loving wife of 61 years, Barbara; daughters, Karla Thomas and her husband, Chris and Robin Kachura and her husband, Billy; son, Louis A. Esposito; grandchildren, Christopher Thomas and his fiancée, Kayla Burton, Gabby Thomas and her fiancé, Brian Stearns, Katie Thomas and Emma Durney; siblings, Dolly Dadona and Mario Esposito; and many nieces, nephews and dear friends.

Visitation will be held at the Clayton & McGirr Funeral Home, 100 Elton-Adelphia Road (Route 524), Freehold Township on Wednesday, July 1, 2026 from 9:00 to 10:00 AM followed by his 10:30 AM Funeral Mass at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church, 16 McLean Street, Freehold. Entombment will follow in Maplewood Cemetery, 169 West Main Street, Freehold Township. For those who desire, memorial contributions in Louis' name may be made to Tunnel to Towers Foundation, 2361 Hylan Boulevard, Staten Island, NY 10306. For information, directions or to leave condolence messages for the family, visit www.claytonfuneralhome.com .