Thomas Skelding III

Thomas Skelding III, age 75, of Alliance, went home to be with the Lord on January 6, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. 

He was born in Alliance to Thomas and Bessie Skelding Jr, where he lived all his life. He attended Alliance High School and after graduating, he enlisted in the military. He was a proud veteran of the US Navy. He served on the USS Compass Island- AG 153 from 1969-1971. He was a hard dedicated worker and after 43 years of service as a press operator at Transue & Williams Stamping Plant in Alliance, he retired in 2012.

Thomas grew up attending Alliance First Friends church with his family where he accepted Christ as Savior. Most recently Thomas attended North Benton United Presbyterian church with his companion, Barbara Franklin and her family. Thomas is known for his kindness and generosity. He was always a giver and oversaw the annual Christmas toy drive and winter coat collection while employed at Transue & Williams. He was a member of American Legion Post #76.

When he was younger, he enjoyed boating, camping, and fishing. As he got older, he loved golfing, raising cattle, and spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren and great grandchildren. He would never miss an event for his children or grandchildren; he was their biggest fan. He also loved watching sports and was an avid Cleveland Browns and Cleveland Indians fan along with an Ohio State Buckeye fan.

Thomas will be greatly missed by his companion, Barbara Franklin; his sons, Thomas (Stacy) Skelding IV and Justin Skelding; his daughter, Sarah (Troy) Collins; 7 grandchildren, Keilah (Anthony) Collins, Alyssa Skelding, Chloe Skelding, Paige Collins, Tommy Skelding V, Sydney Skelding, and Steven Collins; 2 great grandsons, Walker and Brody Collins; his sister, Linda Anderson; 2 nephews, Paul (Mary) Anderson and Shawn (Sheila) Anderson, and many friends. 

Preceding him in death is his parents, Thomas and Bessie Skelding Jr, and a nephew, Edward Anderson Jr.

A visitation will be held at Cassaday-Turkle-Christian Funeral Home on Friday, January 10th from 5:00-7:00 p.m. 

A service will be held at the funeral home on Saturday, January 11th at 10:00 a.m. with Pastor Herb Goetz officiating. Thomas will be laid to rest at Highland Memorial Park with military honors.