Clarence Melvin "Skippy" Cole went home to be with the Lord on Sunday, March 23, 2025. Skippy was born on October 24, 1930 in Hampton, Virginia and graduated from Hampton High School in 1949. He married the love of his life Patricia (Pat) Ann Collins on April 3, 1953, and the two spent most of their 71 years of marriage living in the heart of Fox Hill. He was a lifetime member of the Fox Hill Central United Methodist Church and participated in multiple church activities and functions.

After graduating high school, Skippy enrolled in the NASA apprentice program. In 1951, during the Korean War, he enlisted in the United States Navy. He served until 1955, when he was discharged with the rank of Aviation Structural Mechanic 2nd class. He returned to NASA, was assigned to the Fabrication Division, and advanced to supervisor of the Instrument Develop
Section. He retired from NASA in 1993 after 44 years of government service.

Skippy was a talented carver of miniature wooden ducks and birds and spent countless hours doing various woodworking projects in his garage. He loved to play golf (scoring two holes-in-one over the course of his life) and was a member of the Hampton Seniors Golf Association for 25 years. He had a positive outlook on life, an infectious smile, and a wonderful sense of humor.

Skippy was preceded in death by his parents, Marie Bloxom Cole and John Wesley Cole, a sister (Beulah), two brothers (Bill and Jack), and his beloved wife Patricia. He is survived by his three children, Richard (and spouse Terry), Stacey, Wesley (and spouse Cathy), four grandchildren (Rebecca, Joshua, Jacob, and Emma), and one great-grandchild (Eleanor).

A visitation will be held in the narthex at Fox Hill Central United Methodist Church on Friday, March 28, 2025 starting at 1:30pm followed by a memorial service at 2:00pm. A short graveside ceremony at Clark Cemetery will follow.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Skippy's memory to the Clark Cemetery Association c/o Mary Lou Roaseau, 373 Emily Dickenson South, Newport News, VA 23606 or Fox Hill Central UMC, 501 Beach Road, Hampton, VA 23664.

Funeral arrangements handled by R. Hayden Smith Funeral Home.