Thomas Aree Skillern

Celebration of Life Thomas Aree Skillern

Thomas Aree Skillern was born May 31, 1953 to Willie Ted Skillern and Aldine Cox. He was guided in his upbringing by both his maternal grandparents, James and Elzadie Cox and paternal grandparents, Ellis and Myrtle Skillern. Aree attended school in the Houston Independent School District. He came to faith in

Christ in his youth under the leadership of the late Reverend J.J. Jones of St. Emmanuel Baptist Church and later joined New Hope Baptist Church under the late Reverend S.V. Adolph, where he worshiped and served faithfully. Thomas supported the youth ministry, participated in the Men’s Annual Day Choir and led devotion for their special day. He found joy in being a key supporter of fundraising efforts for the May birthday Annual Calendar Rally. His desire during his illness was to walk back through the doors of New Hope as a testament to the goodness of God.

Like most youths of Ryon’s Edition, where baseball was king, he followed a long legacy of relatives that played the sport well. He was a skillful bat catcher and learned the fundamentals of the game, but more than that, he was blessed to be mentored and coached by Mr. Herman Smith, affectionately known as Mr. Boolah, and Mr. Earl Henderson who instilled in the young boys of the community, character, respect for themselves and others, good sportsmanship and a love for God.

His work life included Jamie’s Restaurant where he honed his skills and developed a love for cooking. He was also employed by Big H. Auto Auction, the Housing Authority and finally as a Food Manager for Aramark where he supported his beloved Astros and became an avid collector of the team’s memorabilia.

Thomas met and married Irma Jane Politte on August 21, 1982. After 42 years of marriage, they had five sons, Mark Politte (Tuana), Kevin Politte, Christopher Cashmere, David Politte and finally Darrick Politte Skillern. Thomas has two granddaughters, Crystal Cashmere and Diamond Politte. His beloved best buddy “Big Boy” is a blue heeler.

The Skillern hospitality was famous as he and Irma hosted parties, fish fries, and holiday gatherings for family, friends and neighbors. He was a trusted friend and maintained the friendships of his boyhood friends much like the relationship between Jonathan and David. He was supportive of his immediate and extended family including the second generation youth, so much so that all the family affectionately called him” Uncle”.

Thomas was not bitter about the state of his health and his many issues, but he met each day with gratitude. Aree slipped the surly bonds of earth on August 31, 2024 where God's grace allowed him to have a peaceful transition as he died in the Lord.

He is preceded in death by parents, Willie Ted Skillern and Aldine Cox, both grandparents James and Elzadie Cox and Ellis and Myrtle Skillern. A brother, Milton Skillern and son David Politte.

He leaves to cherish his memory his wife, Irma Politte-Skillern, sons, Mark Politte, Kevin Politte, Christopher Cashmere, David Politte and Darrick Politte Skillern. His beloved grandson Mark Politte Jr. and granddaughters Crystal Cashmere and Diamond Politte, who credits her grandfather with leading her to faith in Christ. He also leaves three sisters, Shirley, Myrtle and Evelyn Skillern of Houston, brothers Willie (Mary) and Carl Skillern of Houston, Elliot Skillern (Carmelia) of South Carolina, Maurice Skillern of Tennessee, and Chelton Skillern (Lori Ann). The memories of his life will also linger with the Politte family and a host of family and friends whose lives he’s touched.

Love Letter to my Dearest Husband

As I sit here, surrounded by memories of the life we built together, my heart aches for your presence. For 42 years, you were my partner, my friend, my strength, and the love of my life. Every step of our journey, you held my hand, and together we faced life’s joys and challenges. Your kindness touched every heart, and your strength carried us through the good times and the bad. Our love grew deeper with every passing year, and through the laughter, tears, and the raising of our five wonderful sons, you were my constant companion. You taught me what it means to love selflessly and to live fully. Your kindness, your wisdom, and your unwavering devotion will forever remain a part of me. Though you are no longer here with me, I feel your presence in every beat of my heart. I see you in the faces of our sons, in the love they show to their families, a love they learned from you. Thank you, my love, for a lifetime of cherished moments, for the quiet conversations, the shared dreams, and the deep connection that only the two of us understood. I will carry you with me always, until we meet again. Rest peacefully, I will love you forever.

A visitation for Thomas will be held Saturday, September 14, 2024 from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM at New Hope Baptist Church, 5202 Chapman St, Houston, TX 77009. The funeral services will immediately follow from 1:00 PM to 1:30 PM at Paradise Funeral Home & Cemetery North, 10401 W Montgomery Rd, Houston, TX 77088.