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Gary Franklin Skender, 58, of Hamburg, died Saturday, February 15, 2025, at his residence. Mr. Skender was born July 28, 1966 in Tyler, Texas, raised in Crossett and was a resident of Hamburg for over 35 years. He was a 1985 graduate of Crossett High School and in 2004 he was saved and became a member of the Ashley County Baptist Church. Mr. Skender was a Millwright and worked for various mill maintenance construction companies. He enjoyed listening to music, especially country, collecting coins, gardening, fishing and hunting. With his good looks and charming personality, he attracted everyone's love. Mr. Skender was known to be a faithful friend, a protector and would always have your back.
He is preceded in death by his father, Frank Charles Skender in 2023; a sister, Cynthia Lynn Skender Brantley in 2024 and his grandparents, Frank and Opal Skender and Eugene and Rea Johnson.
He is survived by two sons, Derek Skender of Hamburg and Frank Skender of Yulee, Florida; two daughters, Caroline Skender of Jacksonville, Florida and Jessica Skender of Yulee, Florida; his mother, Peggy Johnson Skender of Crossett and four grandchildren, Caiden, Piper, Khloe and Scarlett.
Funeral services are 2 p.m., Tuesday, February 18, 2025, in the Jones-Hartshorn Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Robin Allen officiating. Burial will be in the Parkdale Cemetery. Pallbearers are Jerry Skender, Joey McLeod, Austin Vestal, Paul Skender and Jim Skender. Memorials may be made to St. Jude, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105-9959.
Visitation will be 1-2 p.m., Tuesday in the funeral home chapel.