Charlie was born on Monday, October 7th,1946 in Atlanta, TX to James Oren and Annie Louise Skelton. He was the 2nd of 5 siblings. He is preceded in death by his sister Kay, and brother James “Jimmy” Skelton. He is survived by his sister’s Bylinda, Vicki, and Jan.
Charlie and Sandy were blessed with a son, Charles Allen Skelton Jr. better known as Butch, and his wife and their “daughter-in-love” Jamie Skelton. They are affectionately known as Nana and Papa to 2 incredible grandchildren, Halle Elizabeth age 20, and Brendon Slade age 18. Both grandkids attend Texas A&M University, and their Papa is the most proud Aggie Granddad you will ever meet.
Charlie and Sandy’s marriage has always had Christ at the center. During good times and bad they would draw upon God’s promises and find a greater joy and fulfillment in his ever-loving presence.
Charlie impacted so many lives during his 75 years. He had a generous heart, a genuine love for others, and an unparalleled sense of humor. His family and friends can attest to his playfulness and constant shenanigans. His heart was young and he had a joyous personality.
As a young man he joined the United States Air force in 1966. It was there that Sandy caught his eye at a USO event at Chanute Air Force Base in Champaign Illinois. They were married 5 months later on August 3rd 1968. Charlie honorably served his country with 2 tours in Vietnam. He attained the rank of Staff Sargent before receiving an honorable discharge in 1972. Butch was born during this time on October 29th, 1970 on the military base in Minot, North Dakota.
After discharge Charlie resumed civilian life working for the General Telephone & Electronics Corporation, better known as GTE. Using skills acquired in the service, Charlie traveled the United States installing telephone systems. They settled in Brownwood, TX where they raised Butch as a loud and proud Brownwood Lion. Charlie attended Howard Payne University receiving an associate’s degree during his time employed at GTE.
In 1999 he happily retired and began a new adventure on the road living the RV life. Charlie and Sandy travelled full time with their best friends Beverly and Silas Berry. They explored this great country making memories that will last a lifetime.
Charlie’s walk with Jesus was a fundamental element of his life. He was a member of the Justin 1st Baptist Church until he and Sandy moved to Decatur, TX. Where they joined Cornerstone Church. They were both very active in their church home. Charlie just recently went on a mission trip to Chile. He was an inspiration with his faith, and loyal with his friendships. He was always willing to lend a helping hand in whatever capacity he was needed. Charlie was truly a jack-of-all-trades.
He will be missed by the countless people whose lives he touched. Today his faith has been perfected as he has risen in power through the love and grace of his Lord Jesus Christ. To those in Christ we have the assurance that we will see him again soon and very soon.
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