Gloucester - John B. Skerry, Jr. ,72, peacefully passed away on Monday, April 17, 2023 at Beverly Hospital following a stoic battle with a lengthy illness. He was lovingly surrounded by his family. Born on July 14, 1950 in Concord, New Hampshire, he was the son of the late John and Barbara (Harrington) Skerry. He was the beloved husband of Judith I. (Grace) Skerry.

John was a 1969 Gloucester High School graduate who then went on to further his education, obtaining a Bachelors of Engineering degree from Wentworth Institute of Technology. Being raised near the ocean shores and with a deep love of the ocean, he then went on to become a fish broker for many years; traveling often, both nationally and internationally. He also enjoyed many years as treasurer for the American Model Yachting Association. He proudly retired from Manchester Marine, where he had enjoyed several years assisting with marine inventory.

Throughout his years, he developed a passion for model boat construction and racing; attending multiple regattas and was recognized nationally. Aside from sailing his beautiful boats, he also loved sitting in the sun on his deck that overlooked the beautiful Mill River, while quietly observing nature; along with taking scenic road trips and vacations with his wife, and dining out with old and new friends at their favorite restaurants. He loved the holidays, especially Thanksgiving; spending time with his family was very special to him. His children and grandchildren will remember him as having the gift to fix most everything, the maker of cool boats; and as a kind and loving father and grandfather.

In addition to his devoted wife, John is survived by one son, Nathaniel Skerry and partner Kelly of Salem and one daughter, Margaret Palazola and husband Bryan of Gloucester; one stepdaughter, Kendra Carrancho and husband John Jr. of Gloucester; two stepsons, Brian Hardy and wife Heather of Gloucester, Adam Hardy and wife Tiffany of Gloucester; six grandchildren, whom he adored, Julia Carrancho, Piper Palazola, Logan Hardy, Noah Skerry, Kailey Hardy and Landen Hardy; his sister, Gail Jones and husband, George of Fox Island, WA; his brother in law David Grace and wife Jennifer, his brother-in-law, Joseph Grace and wife Debbie, and his sister-in-law, Katherine MacInnis and husband Lance; and their children; his niece Kimberly and nephew Jeffrey, along with their children. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends and all who knew him.

His Graveside service will be at Seaside Cemetery, Gloucester, on April 28th at 11 a.m. Reception to follow at Minglewood Restaurant, 25 Rogers Street, Gloucester. Relatives and friends are invited to attend. Memorial contributions may be made in John's name to Ipswich Junior Sailing at www.ipswichjuniorsailing.org. Arrangements by the Campbell Funeral Home, 61 Middle Street, Beverly. Information, directions, and condolences at www.campbellfuneral.com.