UNCLE SKEETER WAS SPECIAL

I am blessed to have been born into a giant extended family. At one time, I was one of about 30 first cousins living in Virginia. Growing up, I had bushels of aunts, uncles, cousins, cousins of cousins, godparents and more, all of whom assembled together on a regular basis. From my earliest memory, Uncle Massie ( “Skeeter”) was right smack in the middle of this happy throng. Skeeter was always special. He wasn’t as crazy as my other relatives. Don’t get me wrong, he was a character, he was fun, and had a great dry wit, but something separated him from everyone else. He was the “rock.” For decades, Skeeter was the “go to” guy. I can’t count the times when I needed advice or someone to talk to about something; I called Skeeter. There were many times when I would call or see Skeeter to tell him news about a friend or family member: Skeeter already knew the news and was actively involved in aid and assistance. Uncle Skeeter was the guy who was always in the foxhole with you. Loyalty defined Skeeter. He never missed a graduation, a christening, a wedding, a funeral. He was always there.

He was also a piece of work. Remember the old TV sitcom Maude? Skeeter used to call Goobie Maude. I still chuckle thinking about this. I can still hear and visualize Skeeter and Gertrude in one of their verbal fisticuffs. Gertrude would leave the room and Skeeter would start laughing and shaking his head. He loved to “put on” the persona of a grouchy curmudgeon, but in reality he was a real sweetheart.

My dad loved Skeeter ! God, they used to tease each other. I think Pop used to think of Skeeter as his kid brother. Back in the day, we went to Virginia Beach every summer. I remember Pop, Skeeter and Bob Hatcher going to Webster’s and buying the loudest clothes imaginable; paisley pants, lime green sports jackets; the type of glad rags nobody wore in 1967. Every night, they were as loud as their clothes and we children loved being around them. Everyone loved Skeeter. I loved him very much. I am sorry he is gone, but I have to admit, I am happy for my old man. Dad has been gone for 29 years. I think he enjoys heaven alright, and is always excited when one of his old buddies checks in, but for him, heaven ain’t what it’s cracked up to be without Skeeter around There is NO ONE he has been waiting for with more excitement than Skeeter.

So, I can hear the voices:

Marston: “E. MONEY !!!”

Skeets: Is that you, HOSE NOSE ? Is this the room you reserved for me, what a dump, shouldn’t we be on a higher floor?

Goobie: laughing in the background…………..

Uncle Skeeter’s Obit