January 16, 2025, 94, Goldsboro —
Kei Esposito, a beloved mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully in her home on January 16, 2025. She was a beacon of love who left an indelible mark on everyone who had the joy of knowing her.
Born on May 2, 1930 in Sayama-shi, Saitama-Ken, Japan, she immigrated to the United States in 1959 and was a longtime resident of Goldsboro. She embraced this country as her own, proudly becoming an American citizen and cherishing the opportunities it provided.
For over 30 years, Kei worked as a cocktail waitress at the Officer’s Club and NCO Club on Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, where her infectious spirit and quick wit endeared her to countless soldiers and colleagues over the years. No one was ever a stranger to Kei. Her ability to make people feel seen and valued was one of her most extraordinary gifts.
Her greatest joy in life was her family. She poured her heart and soul into being a devoted mother and grandma, always putting their happiness and well-being first. Whether she was sharing a laugh over home-cooked meals, offering quiet words of encouragement, or simply telling it like it is, she was the heart of the family and their fiercest champion.
In her free time, Kei could often be found at Beach Bingo, armed with a Bingo dauber and surrounded by an arsenal of lucky charms. Whether she hit the jackpot or not, she always walked away a winner, thanks to the special friends and unforgettable memories she made there.
She also loved to cook meals for family and friends, creating countless memories around the dinner table. She was known for her homemade beef jerky and loved to share it with others. It became a signature treat that everyone who knew her came to cherish.
Kei had a green thumb and loved tending to her garden over the years. It seemed as though she could get growth out of even the most stubborn seeds. Her garden was more than just a collection of flowers; it was a reflection of her nurturing spirit.
She had a sassy personality that kept everyone smiling. Even in her final days, she managed to keep everyone on their toes with her sharp comebacks and playful humor. But perhaps what defined her the most was her unwavering strength and indomitable spirit. She is already deeply missed by all who knew her. Her legacy of kindness, joy, and generosity will continue to inspire us to live with the same open heart, commitment to family, and joy for life that she embodied every day.
She is survived by her three children, Bobbie Chambers (Brian), Annette Phelps, and Darren Phelps (Josie) and two beloved granddaughters, Madelyn and Marisa Phelps. She is preceded in death by her parents, Ei Koizumi and Tsurumatsu Miyaoka; five brothers, Urazo, Asahed, Tazo, Kohei, and Kiyoshi; three sisters, Yoshi, Kimi, and Chie; and many cherished fur babies and fur grandbabies throughout the years.
A memorial service will be held to honor Kei’s incredible life on Saturday, Jan. 25 at 2:00 pm at Seymour Funeral Home on Wayne Memorial Dr. All are welcome to join in celebrating the woman who made everyone feel like family. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that her Bingo buddies play a game in her honor and others can donate to their favorite military or animal charity.
