Annabel K. Skelly

March 15, 1921 - November 7, 2012

Annabel Kotlarich Skelly, 91, was born March 15, 1921 in Galveston and passed away on Wednesday, November 7, 2012, with her daughter, Joanna, by her side. A Ball High School graduate, she retired from Southwestern Bell after 44 ½ years of service. She appreciated and loved the many lifelong friends that were established during her lengthy telephone career. She enjoyed being an active participant in Galveston community service and her church activities. In addition she especially enjoyed the Burnet PTA, and in later years the Telephone Pioneers and AARP Chapter 1294. Damage to her home from Hurricane Ike and failing health resulted in Annabel relocating to Arlington, TX to be near her daughter. She never gave up hope of returning to her beloved island home, but due to declining health, that unfortunately would never happen. Born on the Island, she was a lifelong member of Central Christian Church, which played an important role in her life.

She is survived by her only child, daughter, Joanna Marie Bennett and her husband Jerry of Arlington, Texas, her sister, Florence Crews of Folkston, GA, and brother, J. L. Kotlarich of Willis, TX, as well as many nieces and nephews.

Annabel was preceded in death by her parents, Peter and Julia Kotlarich; her husband, Hays Skelly; sisters, Martha Speaker, Jo Kotlarich, Patsy Wimberly, Mary Ruchti and Julia Blackwell; and her brothers, William (Beau) Kotlarich and Pete Kotlarich.

Annabel’s family will receive visitors from 5:00 until 7:00 pm, Sunday, November 11th, at Malloy & Son Funeral Home.

Graveside services will be held at 10:00 am, Monday, November 12th, at Galveston Memorial Park in Hitchcock, with Pastor John Allums officiating. Annabel will be laid to rest alongside her beloved husband, Hays Skelly.

Memorials may be made to Central Christian Church, 2702 Ave. O ½, Galveston, TX 77550.

Malloy Funerals & Cremations

Light a candle Light a candle

Flowers & Gifts

Arrangements starting at $35

See Condolences

I had the pleasure of working with "Ms. Skelly" at Southwestern Bell. She was a wonderful person and will be remembered always. She could give you a scolding with firmness and a twinkle in her eye! She was a caring and loving lady. Very special!

It is with deepest sympathy that I write this text. Aunt Bell has always held a special place in my heart. After the death of my dad in 1962, she and Uncle Hays played a major role in the lives of me and Julie as we spent the summers in Glaveston, Hitchcock, Texas City and Houston. She and her sisters were there for us in our time of grief and have always continued to share their love for the four of us. She and my mother (her sister, Florence) spent the past few years communicating with each as they realize that they along with their brother, JL, were the remaining siblings in their family. I extend my condolences to Joanna and Jerry in their loss. Aunt Bell is going to be gretly missed. With Love, Dean

Our thoughts remain with you and your family at this time. We are honored by the trust and confidence you have placed in us during this difficult time. – The Staff of Malloy Funerals & Cremations