Louis Esposito

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Louis “Lou” Esposito on January 16, 2026, at the age of 84. Born in Brooklyn, NY on August 27, 1941, Lou grew up surrounded by his parents, Mary and John Esposito, his beloved brothers, John and Rick, and many close relatives who lived nearby. He remained a lifelong Brooklyn Dodgers fan.

Lou’s family later moved to Jersey City, NJ, where he attended Henry Snyder High School, graduating in 1959. He was an outstanding honors student, active in school events, and formed friendships that lasted a lifetime. The family home at 37 College Drive became a cherished gathering place - where Lou played his 78 rpm records (The Platters, the Clancy Brothers, and many more,) spent time with his brothers and friends, and then celebrated countless holidays with Mary and John and the Esposito family through the years.

Lou earned his B.A. in Economics from St. Peter’s College in Jersey City in 1963, followed by both his M.A. and Ph.D. in Economics from Boston College, completing his doctorate in 1968. It was at Boston College that he met his wife, Frances Ferguson Esposito, who also earned her Ph.D. in Economics. Together, Lou and Fran published numerous academic papers, contributing significantly to their field. Lou’s areas of specialization included industrial organization, antitrust policy, and health economics. Lifelong friends were also made at Boston College.

Lou enjoyed a long and distinguished career as a Professor of Economics, Dean, and University Provost. From 1967 to 1999, he served the University of Massachusetts Boston first as a professor, then as Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, and ultimately Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs and Provost. He later continued his leadership in higher education as Provost at Oakland University in Rochester, MI, and then at the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth. Before fully retiring, Lou returned to Boston College to teach one of his greatest academic passions - health economics. In retirement, he devoted himself to caring for his beloved wife, Frances, with extraordinary love and dedication.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Lou cherished the adventures he shared with Frances and their daughter, Donna. Together they traveled throughout the United States, especially the Southwest and many national parks. They loved exploring museums across New England. Lou took Donna to the old Boston Garden for Celtics games when she was young, nurturing her lifelong love of sports. Over the years, Donna and her dad enjoyed countless Celtics games, musicals - Les Misérables being a favorite - and operas. When Donna married Jay, the longtime trio joyfully became a quartet, sharing memorable trips to Maine and Arizona.

Lou was a true “foodie,” always researching and trying new restaurants. He loved watching sports—especially Tom Brady and the Patriots—on his giant TVs, with Frances and with Donna and Jay.

Lou was the most devoted father, husband, brother, and friend. He was kind, caring, a wonderful listener, and endlessly generous. He was inquisitive, loved data, and relished a good debate. Above all, he was the best father and friend Donna could ever have hoped for.

Lou's cherished wife of 54 years, Frances, passed away in 2023. He is survived by his devoted daughter, Donna Ferguson Esposito, his son-in-law Jay Thomas Kimble, his brothers and their wives, John and Jean Esposito and Rick and Lida Esposito; his nephews; and dear friends.

Family and friends are invited to Lou’s Celebration of Life on Wednesday, January 28, 2026 from 2 until 4 PM at the WESTFORD HEALY FUNERAL HOME, 57 N Main Street, Westford. His funeral service will be held immediately following at 4 PM in the funeral home. A celebration event of Lou’s life will be held in the spring. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Lou’s memory to either the World Central Kitchen, The Conservation Fund or to the Gary Sinise Foundation.