Skip was born to Kathyrn Cox Hand and Floyd N Hand in Houston, Texas. He is survived by his wife of 29 years Elizabeth Debaillon of Montgomery, daughters Michaele Campos and husband Eli, Wendy Hand, Nicole Southwell and husband Mark. He will be greatly missed by his grandchildren Madison Hilliard and Ty Southwell. He also leaves sisters Beverly Haygood, Renee McClay and husband Michael, Peggy Bingham and husband Rev. Michael Bingham, and Tracy (Khai) Hand as well as a countless host of relatives and friends.
Skip retired from the US Navy with over 20 years of exemplary service. He learned the Vietnamese language and served as a translator/interpreter performing intelligence work for NSA during multiple active-duty assignments during the Vietnam war. He was awarded a Combat Action Ribbon, three Good Conduct Medals for Service, a Navy Unit Commendation, a Meritorious Unit Commendation and multiple Navy Achievement Medals, one of which adorned with a “V” Valor awarded for individual heroism in combat. The Republic of Vietnam also awarded Skip a Campaign Medal plus a Service Medal with Seven Stars. He was very proud of being awarded only one of four special Air Medals issued by the United States Air Force, a very rare honor for any Navy man. However, he was most proud of the Eagle Globe and Anchor on his service medal awarded for being assigned to and served with a U.S. Marine Corps combat unit during the war.
On leaving the Navy Skip discovered another passion, that of being a Registered Nurse. He severed in the ER before answering the call to become certified as a forensic nurse. His compassionate care delivered to sexual assault victims, both adult and children, provided light when many were in darkness. His natural leadership skill saw him rise to a new pinnacle becoming the Coordinator of the Forensic Nursing Program at the Memorial Hermann Health System in Houston, Texas.
His service to his country was matched by his service to his community and friends. Skip never turned down giving a helping hand, always with a smile, wonderful attitude, and without being asked! In retirement, he became a board member of the Montgomery County Women's Center selflessly serving with his wife Liz, in a passion continuing to help victims of sexual assault and domestic violence.
In lieu of flowers, donations to Montgomery County Women’s shelter would be most appreciated.
