Lewis County Herald - Serving Hohenwald, Lewis County Tennessee Since 1898

Music legend Albert "Moose" Skelton Jr. passed from this earthly world on October 6, 2020 at his Hohenwald home at the age of 79.

Moose, as most knew him, was born on September 30, 1941 in Lewis County to the late Albert and Bessie (Fain) Skelton.

Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of 43 years, Billie Jo Ayers Skelton.

Mr. Skelton began working in the milk distributing industry in the 1960's, beginning his career at Sealtest Milk Company before taking a job at Purity Milk. He retired after 30 years, but then began working for South Central Resources delivering Meals on Wheels to Lewis and other surrounding counties.

Anyone who had the pleasure of knowing Moose knew his passion for music, specifically country music. With him being a professional steel guitar player, this allowed him to attend the Steel Guitar Convention in 1976 in St. Louis. Being invited to attend the convention, he was given an opportunity of a lifetime to sit in on sessions of some country music legends such as Loretta Lynn, Barbara Mandrell, and Dottie West, just to name a few. Since being known for his talent, in his spare time he would often hold private lessons to many that have now become famous in the country music industry. Many times he was offered a chance to play professionally in the music industry, but with the love for his family and dear wife Billie Jo, he would always decline.

He leaves behind his son, Dennis L. Skelton; two granddaughters; one grandson; one great-granddaughter; one great-grandson; and a host of family and friends.

Funeral service was conducted at 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, October 13, 2020 in the chapel of Adair Funeral and Cremation Services with Bill Webb officiating. Burial followed in the Beech Grove Cemetery in Pleasantville.