Derek W. Skillings

Derek Washington Skillings, 40, of Hillside, passed away unexpectedly on December 20, 2023 in an automobile accident. Derek was born on March 24, 1983 in Latrobe, a son of Irven W.and Timara L. (Skillings) Hall of Hillside, PA. Derek loved all sports and was a big supporter of the local sports teams. He enjoyed watching and encouraging athletes. Derek was constantly seen showing kids how to improve in their sport. There was never a person he didn’t know or have some type of positive encounter. His laughter was contagious and smile was magnetic! He was a graduate of Derry Area High School where he holds the record for 100 and 200 meter dash and enjoyed playing baseball. Derek loved spending time with his family and friends. Derek was an employee at Pace Industries. Derek will be missed immensely. Besides his parents Derek is survived by his life partner, Erin Meanor; Sister, Anita (Christopher) Morgan and Brother, Vincent L. (Anjee) Skillings; the loves of his life, his children Makhia, Myhlie, Anthony, Isaiah, Elijah, Lily, Aphenia, Lucianna, Kamara, and Seth; Aunts - Rhonda Dukes (Punxsutawney), Vanessa (Dorsey) Smith (Salsbury, MD) and Annette Harris (Blairsville); Uncles - Vincent Skillings (Blairsville), Keith (Deb) Hall (Hillside), Jay Hall (Blairsville); niece, Zayna (Elijah) McDonald; nephews Kalil, Robert, Tavius; great nephew Azariah McDonald and a host of cousins and friends. Family will receive friends for Derek’s Life Celebration 3-6PM Wednesday, December 27, 2023 at the Matthew X. Merlin Funeral Home Inc. 529 N. Chestnut St. Derry, PA 724-694-8331. A funeral service will follow, 6PM, in the funeral home with his Uncle Vincent Skillings officiating. In lieu of flowers memorial contribution may be made to the funeral home to offset funeral costs. Online condolences may be made to www.merlinfuneralhome.com.

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