John Silas Wesley Essary (“Wes”), age 57, of Tuscaloosa, Alabama, passed away peacefully on February 7, 2026, at Hospice of West Alabama.

A gathering for family and friends to share stories and celebrate Wes’s life will be held at his home on Thursday, February 12, 2026, from 5:00–7:00 p.m. Norwood-Wyatt Chapel will be directing the service.

Wes was preceded in death by his father, Alvin T. Essary, and his brother, Van Essary. He is survived by the love of his life, Pam Cabiness (son Cole); his son, Hayden; his mother, Jane; his brothers, Daryl (Jackie) and Talbert (Michelle); and his niece, Hannah Essary Garrison (husband Kyle and their children, Miya and Jayden).

Wes was an avid fisherman and outdoorsman who loved hunting, being on the water, and helping others. Known for his generous spirit, he would give anyone the shirt off his back. Over the last couple of years, he fought a difficult battle with strength and quiet determination, never letting it slow him down or diminish his joy for life. His strong faith sustained him through every challenge, just as it will sustain those who loved him through this difficult time. We take comfort in knowing he is in a better place—at home in heaven with our Lord and Savior and, no doubt, reeling in that 300-pound bass.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the doctors and nurses at the Lewis and Faye Manderson Cancer Center and Hospice of West Alabama for their compassionate care and for being his angels here on Earth.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to support a dear friend of Wes who is currently battling cancer; contributions may be sent via Venmo (@pamcabiness) or by contacting Pam Cabiness for details.