Ted Lewis Skeans' Obituary
Obituary for Colonel Ted Lewis Skeans
March 10, 1932 – June 27, 2025
With deep sorrow and overflowing love, we announce the passing of Colonel Ted Lewis Skeans, a cherished husband, devoted father and grandfather, decorated soldier, teacher, faithful servant of the Lord, and a true gentleman in every sense of the word. Ted peacefully entered eternal rest on the morning of Friday, June 27, 2025, at the age of 93, surrounded by the unwavering love of his beloved wife, Dorothy Skeans, and compassionate caregivers.
Born on March 10, 1932, to Grace Farris Day and Horace Greever Skeans, Ted was a proud son of American soil, called early in life to serve his country and his Creator. His military career was distinguished and honorable, earning him the respected title of Colonel in the United States Armed Forces. Ted's life reflected steadfast commitment to duty, to family, and his unshakable faith in God.
Ted's faith in God was the cornerstone of his life. He was a passionate teacher of Sunday school and Bible classes, offering wisdom and inspiration to many throughout the years. His quiet strength, spiritual grounding, and gentle guidance left an impression on everyone who crossed his path. Ted believed in giving back, faithfully donating to multiple organizations close to his heart. His generosity, both material and spiritual, made a difference in countless lives.
In the later chapter of his life, Ted was blessed with a love that renewed and sustained him. He shared a beautiful 15-year marriage with his loving and devoted wife, Dorothy Skeans, a faithful companion and soulmate. Together, Ted and Dorothy embraced life’s adventures and joys with gratitude and wonder. Their years were filled with travel, exploration, and discovery—from majestic mountains to sunlit coasts, quiet countryside to historic cities. Whether strolling through foreign streets or soaking in the beauty of God’s creation from a quiet bench, they found joy in the journey and in each other. Their love was tender, steady, and full of laughter, a testament to the healing power of companionship and the beauty of shared memories.
Ted was preceded in death by his parents; his first wife, Elsie Skeans, with whom he shared 47 cherished years; and his beloved son, Mark Andrew Skeans, whose memory he carried in his heart until his final day. Though his heart bore the grief of these losses, Ted continued to live with purpose and grace, giving generously of himself to those around him.
Ted’s devotion to family was unwavering. He is survived by his son, Robert Alan Skeans of Plano, Texas, and five beloved grandchildren: Jaclyn Skeans, Andrew Skeans, Jessica Skeans, Lucas Skeans, and Emma Skeans. He also leaves behind two daughters-in-law, Sherrie Skeans and Tracy Skeans, whose care and love enriched his life profoundly. Ted was also loved by his step grandchildren, Melissa Hoppes and Melinda Smiljanic as well as his step great-grandchildren Weston and Kailyn Hoppes.
Through his marriage to Dorothy, Ted gained a another loving extended family. His stepchildren also survive him: George Kennedy III and Neina Kennedy; three cherished step-grandchildren: George Kennedy IV, Stacia Kennedy Shoults, and Derek Kennedy; and six step-great-grandchildren who brought him joy and laughter in his later years: Coye, Tyson, George, Cooper, Maddox, and Barrett. Ted welcomed them all with open arms and loved them as his own.
A special and sincere thank you is extended to Tracy Skeans, whose strength, commitment, and compassion ensured that Ted’s personal affairs and healthcare were handled with extraordinary care, love, and integrity. Her dedication brought peace to the entire family, allowing Ted to live out his final days in comfort and dignity.
The family also expresses heartfelt gratitude to Ted’s private nurse, Kim Mullins, of Heaven Sent End of Life Doula and Care Companions, whose spiritual comfort and expert care were a source of great peace. Deep thanks are also due to his kind and attentive caregivers: Latonyua Ramsour, Nia Washington, and Ashley Willis-Porter, who served Ted not just with skill, but with genuine love and respect.
Colonel Ted Skeans leaves behind a legacy steeped in courage, compassion, integrity, and faith. He was a warrior of principle, a father of wisdom, a grandfather of warmth, and a husband of profound devotion. His life was a blessing, his memory a treasure, and his influence eternal.
We rest in the assurance that Ted has now been welcomed into the arms of his Heavenly Father, reunited with those who have gone before him, and crowned with the peace and joy of everlasting life.
“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” – 2 Timothy 4:7
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