John Edward Skelton, 62, of Anderson, S.C., passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, May 12, 2022, at AnMed Health Medical Center.
John was the son of the late Johnny Edward “Ed” Skelton, and the late Bernie Gilmer Skelton, both of Anderson.
He is survived by his sisters, Susan Skelton of Greenville, and Cynthia Skelton of Pendleton, his nephew Kyle Skelton and Kyle’s fiancé, Abby, both of Mt. Pleasant, and his beloved rescue dogs, Gigi, and Sophie.
He is also survived by his soulmate, Beverly Skelton and his 3 grandchildren, Anslee, Oliver, and Millie Grace all of Anderson. His grandchildren brought him the happiness he so greatly deserved.
John was the owner/operator of Skelton Electrical and AC, continuing his father’s business since 1993. An alumni of Westside High School, he attended Clemson University School of Engineering, before joining his father’s business. Later in life, he attended Tri County Technical College, where he participated in the Industrial Robotics Technical Program. Since he could repair anything, this only added to his “McGyver” status in our family.
John was looking towards retirement and spent a great deal of time with his grandchildren. His backyard was the best playground, with a fort, sandbox, zipline and trampoline (all mini sizes). He enjoyed pontoon rides on the lake and farm trips on the weekend with his grandchildren. He was also an avid racing fan of NASCAR, drag races, Legend cars, and Funny cars.
John never met a stranger and lived his life through acts of kindness. He rendered his hand to anyone in need. He left a giving heart legacy with his last life gift through the Sharing Hope of S.C. Donor Program. Two lives were saved through his kidney donation, something he wanted, but was unable to do for his father.
John loved all animals, especially his many rescue pups- Copper#1, Copper#2, Jaffy, Boo and his diva, Cinnamon. Wherever he went, they followed. Cinnamon even had her own window unit installed in his work truck toward the end of her life.
He was a son, brother, uncle, cousin, nephew, friend, and Papa John with a heart of gold and will forever be missed.
To honor John’s life, a celebration is planned for Saturday, May 21, 2022, at New Prospect Baptist Church. The family will receive friends at 1:30pm followed by a memorial service at 2:00. Rev. Bobby Watson will officiate.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Oliver and Millie Grace Educational Fund in memory of John Skelton at Wells Fargo Bank, 1101 North Main Street, Anderson, SC 29621.
A message of condolence may be sent to the family by visiting www.standardfuneralcenter.com