John Francis Skelly Jr., age 79, of Wilton, New Hampshire, passed away suddenly on March 3, 2016 in St. Petersburg, Florida. John, or "Jack" as he was also known, was born on April 20, 1936 in Brooklyn, New York. He was the son of Katherine and John Skelly; and the younger brother of Tom Skelly who also died on March 3, 2015.

Jack was a graduate of the Johnson & Wales Culinary College in Providence, Rhode Island. He had a catering business and worked as maître d’ at The Gourmet French restaurant in Milford, NH. During a major part of his life, he worked as an air traffic controller with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), a state trooper, small business owner (bar and ice cream businesses), a real estate broker, and a state liquor store manager. He was truly a "Jack" of many trades.

Jack enjoyed homes in both Wilton, New Hampshire and St. Petersburg, Florida. He and his wife, Betty had been spending their winters in St. Petersburg since 1996. Over the past 20 years they made many friends and maintained an active social calendar. Most friends remember Jack as a practical joker. They loved his tomfooleries, jokes and stories. Friends also loved to come to his home to play card games, dominoes, and be treated to wonderful meals. His soups were the best! Jack was an active reader and really enjoyed historical literature, especially about World War II. He served his country in the Army during the Korean War. He was a member of the Elks, VFW, American Legion and Freemasons. Jack was also a member of Alcoholic Anonymous (AA) and was to be awarded his 40th anniversary pin on March 16 for his participation, support and inspiration. Jack is survived by his wife, Betty and their four children: Nancy, Christine, John and Michael; and by his daughter-inlaw, Sheri and son-in-law, Martin. Jack is also survived by his four lovely granddaughters: Emily, Stephanie, Olivia and Emma.

A Celebration of Life at The Second Congregational Church 25 Gregg St., Wilton is planned for May 28, 2016 @ 10 am. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the American Heart Association.