Taliaferro (Tol) Grant Eslick, age 102, a lifelong resident of Pulaski, Tennessee, passed away peacefully at his home Friday February 17, 2024
He was born February 2, 1922 to Mark Eslick and Hallie Grant Eslick; and is preceded in death by his wife of 72 years, Doris Elaine Bouck Eslick, his parents, and three older siblings.
Tol appreciated the simple pleasures in life: nature, music, reading, watching sports, and most of all, his devotion to God and his beloved family. His five grandchildren and eight great grandchildren brought immeasurable joy to his life; and he will be remembered for his wise counsel, deep commitment to his faith, sharp wit and humor, and his kindness to everyone. He was a wonderful role model to his family, never saying an unkind word about anyone.
As a student at Giles County High School, Tol was football and basketball captain, and Senior Class and student body president. He played saxophone in the high school band, in Billy Hardiman’s Orchestra, and later, in the Serenadors. Upon graduation, he attended Marion Institute before entering the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis, Maryland. Tol served as a naval aviator in World War II, and achieved the rank of Lieutenant Junior Grade.
Upon his release from the Navy, he returned to Pulaski where he spent 50 years assisting local citizens with their insurance needs as owner and co-owner of several local agencies. A lifetime and faithful member of the First Presbyterian Church, Tol served as a Sunday school teacher, deacon, elder, and sang in the choir for 47 years.
Tol is survived by daughters Elaine Eslick McCord (Toby) of Lebanon and Marcia Eslick Drayton of Murfreesboro. Surviving grandchildren include Tol Swindell (Kelly) of Lebanon, Hallie Madewell (Franklin) of Murfreesboro, Amy McCord (Serena Hayden) of Murfreesboro, and Peter and Adam (Brittany) Drayton of Murfreesboro. Surviving great grandchildren include Tol, Yates and Knox Swindell, Grant and Cole Madewell, Wesley, Jeremiah and Billie Jean Drayton.
“Well done, good and faithful servant.”
A private family service will be held at a later date. Carr & Ewin is in charge of arrangements. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the First Presbyterian Church, Giles County Little League, Giles County Animal Shelter, or the Giles County Fire Department.