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Gerald Skillen: Amityville teacher and Babylon Village resident
In addition to his commitment to children and education, he was also involved in many area clubs that work to better the community. Born in Oswego, New York, he later served in the U.S. Navy and taught in the Amityville School District for 35 years. Mr. Skillen was dedicated to his students and created a cooperative work program with the local community businesses forging a partnership between the school and work. In conjunction with the Special Education Parent Teacher Association, he built a thrift store for specialneeds students affording them the opportunity to be integrated into the community and gain valuable work skills. For several years he served as the administrator of the Adult Education program and was the District Director of the Special Education Department until his retirement in 1998. According to his family, Mr. Skillen loved living in Babylon Village and served as Deacon and Elder at the First Presbyterian Church of Babylon. A firm believer in giving back to his beloved community, he served as president of the Babylon Lion's Club from 1989 to 1990, and was awarded Lion of the Year and the Melvin Jones Awards. He was also trustee of the North Babylon Cemetery, served as treasurer of the Babylon Historical Society for eight years and was a committee person for the Babylon Republican party, active in the Better Babylon Party and member of the Babylon Beautification Society. Mr. Skillen leaves behind his wife of 45 years, Judy; his daughters: Michelle Melfiand her husband John, and Kimberly and her husband Michael Johnston; his granddaughters: Kristi and Jennifer Melfiand Mackenzie Johnston; his siblings: Linda Coleman and Kenneth; his nephews: Thomas Richardson, Richard, Kenneth Jr., and Joseph; his niece Kerry Waugh; as well as other loved ones and friends. He reposed at the Claude R. Boyd Spencer Funeral Home in Babylon on January 23 and 24, 2007. A Funeral Mass was held January 25 followed by interment in North Babylon Cemetery.
Donations in Mr. Skillen's name can be sent to the First Presbyterian Church of Babylon, 79 East Main Street, Babylon, New York 11702-3596.
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