Charles Clifford Skiles, born on July 2, 1948, in Mansfield, Ohio to the late Robert T. and Virginia (Chew) Skiles passed away on Thursday, August 27, 2026 at OhioHealth Mansfield Hospital.
Chuck was a man who never met a stranger. His warmth, outgoing nature and fondness for telling stories left a lasting impression on the many lives he touched.
A 1966 graduate of Mansfield Senior High School, Chuck attended Kemper Military Academy in Boonville, Missouri and finished his college education at Ohio University in Athens, Ohio, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in journalism. He continued his love of learning throughout his life, taking classes at Ashland University and at The Ohio State University at Mansfield.
In 1971, Chuck was introduced to Beverly Gallaway at the old Mansfield Coliseum Roller Rink. What started as a friendship soon became an enduring love and Chuck and Beverly were married on April 6, 1974. Together, they built a life centered around family and faith.
Chuck was a longtime and devoted member of Clay Memorial Lutheran Church. Over the years, he served on the church council and was actively involved in the life of his church.
Chuck devoted many years to the Mansfield City School District and surrounding Richland County schools, serving as a substitute teacher. He enjoyed working with young people and sharing the wisdom he had gained throughout his life.
Chuck also spent many hours building his lawn mowing and landscaping business. It was work that suited him perfectly, not only because of his strong work ethic, but because it allowed him to be outdoors and spend time doing what he loved most— engaging with members of his community.
An accomplished Eagle Scout, Chuck continued his love of scouting by later serving as a Boy Scout leader. He enjoyed a variety of hobbies throughout his life, including making latch hook rugs and assembling the family’s treasured Christmas village collection each holiday season.
Chuck was also a lifelong writer with a deep interest in history. In recent years, he was working on his own novel about America during the period of westward expansion. He was fascinated by historical events of the second half of the 19th century and dedicated a great deal of time to research for his book. His writing often blended fiction and historical fact, bringing the past to life through stories rooted in truth.
Chuck loved traveling and created many cherished memories through family trips. From a honeymoon visit to New Orleans with Beverly, to lengthy road trips out West with his family of six, to time on the beaches of the Outer Banks with his grandchildren, Chuck loved to explore America. While a climb up Mount Washington in New Hampshire with his sons was one of his greatest travel accomplishments, Chuck’s favorite place was the beach. He loved swimming, soaking up the sunshine, and spending time near the water.
Singing was perhaps Chuck’s greatest passion and he always sought opportunities to share his gift of song. During his life, he sang at church and with the Fun Center Chordsmen in Mansfield but found the greatest joy sharing karaoke nights with his friends.
Chuck will be remembered as a kind, hardworking and loyal man who cherished his family and friends. He loved helping others and was always ready to offer encouragement, conversation, a helping hand or a song.
He is survived by his beloved wife of more than 52 years, Beverly (Gallaway) Skiles; his sons, David Charles Skiles and Kristen of Blacklick, Robert Owen Skiles and Shannon of Girard, Jeffrey Sean Skiles of New Albany, and Philip Andrew Skiles of New Albany; his grandchildren, Cailyn, Elisabeth, Owen, and Bryant Skiles; and his sister, Holly Stevens of Sandwich, Massachusetts.
In addition to his parents, Chuck was preceded in death by his infant sister, Linda Skiles and brother-in-law, Wayne Stevens.
Friends may call on Thursday, September 3, 2026, from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Marion Avenue Snyder Funeral Home, 350 Marion Avenue, Mansfield. Funeral service will be held on Friday at 11 a.m. at the funeral home. Pastor Carol Kilgore will officiate and burial will follow in Mansfield Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Clay Memorial Lutheran Church or the Ohio Bird Sanctuary (on the grounds of the former Boy Scout Camp Avery Hand).
Snyder Funeral Homes is honored to serve Chuck’s family and encourage those who knew and loved him to share a memory or leave a message of condolence on his obituary page.
Funeral Home: Marion Avenue Snyder Funeral Home
Website: www.snyderfuneralhomes.com