Harry Skilton, Jr

Obituary

Harry Skilton, Jr., aged 85, passed away on February 11, 2026, in Philadelphia, PA. Born on September 27, 1940 in Trenton, NJ, Harry dedicated much of his life to serving communities in small-town western Pennsylvania and the city of Harrisburg, PA. He also loved co-hosting holiday celebrations and cooking feasts for family and friends. He was an avid reader and loved to joke around with people as a way of connecting – even in the hospital during his last week of life.

Harry embarked on his career as the youngest school psychologist in the state of Iowa. He was then the minister at Coalport/Irvona Presbyterian Churches between 1972 and 1978. His passion for education and theology also led him to serve as a visiting professor at Messiah College from 1978 to 1981. Harry's commitment to his ministry continued at Olivet Presbyterian Church in Harrisburg, PA, where he served from 1980 until his retirement in 2005.

A graduate of Trenton High School in 1958, Harry furthered his education at Dartmouth College (Bachelors, History & Religious Studies), the University of Iowa (Masters, School Psychology), and Princeton Seminary (Masters of Divinity), enriching his knowledge and skills that he would later impart through his various professional roles.

Harry's personal life was marked by a profound love of family and a living faith. He was a member of Old Pine Presbyterian Church. His interests were diverse, including fishing, cooking, history, classical music, reading, and enjoying BBC detective series. He leaves behind his beloved wife, Elizabeth Ann Skilton, his daughter Ellen Skilton (David Doligalski), his son Paul Skilton (Katie), and his cherished grandchildren, Eve, Ada, Emily, Will, and Charlie, and two brothers, John (Ellie) and David (Linda) Skilton. Harry was preceded in death by his son Mark Skilton and his brothers, Robert and Alan (Elaine) Skilton.

A service to celebrate Harry's life will be held on February 27, 2026, at Old Pine Presbyterian Church, 412 Pine Street, Philadelphia, PA at 11 am. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to VITAS Inpatient Hospice at Jefferson Methodist Hospital, the American Cancer Society, or Old Pine Presbyterian Church.

Livestream

Harry's Memorial service occurred on Friday, February 27, 2026, at the Old Pine Church in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. A recording of the livestream of the service is available here by clicking the View Video button.

Slide Show

Memory wall