Obituary of Merle Evadney Skyers Gordon

October 3, 2019

In Loving Memory of

Merle Evadney Skyers Gordon

September 15, 1935 – October 3, 2019


~Celebration of Life~
The Church of the Village
201 West 13th Street
New York, NY 10011
Pastor Jeff Wells, presiding


~Obituary~
"May her soul and the souls of all the faithful
departed rest in peace."


Merle Evadney Skyers Gordon was born on September 15, 1935 in Buff Bay, Portland, Jamaica, W.I. She was the eldest of six daughters born to Aaron and Princess Skyers. She was affectionately known as "Sister" Merle. She attended Buff Bay Primary School. Upon leaving school, she worked at The Institute of the Blind, a job that she loved immensely. She would always talk about her experience and the love that she received from the students.



In 1963, she migrated to London, England, to pursue better career opportunities. She lived in London for five years before migrating to New York in 1968. She spearheaded the Skyers Women legacy of dedication and hard work. She started working as a nurse's assistant and later became a Certified Nursing Assistant. She worked at the Village Nursing Home and retired after 29 years of faithful service. She was respected by her co-workers and loved by all her patients. So loved, that all the patients and staff affectionately called her "Mary Lou."



Merle enjoyed traveling, music, dancing, and socializing with family and friends. Merle was actively involved with The Friends of West Portland charity organization.



On September 30, 1989, Merle married her long-time sweetheart Leroy –
who was not only her best friend and confidant, but more recently her primary caregiver. Leroy, we salute you!!! You epitomize the meaning of "until death do us part." Thank you, Leroy, for leading by example!



Merle was a loving wife, devoted mother, endearing sister, special Auntie, and a proud Grandma!



She attended The Church of the Village (and formerly Metropolitan Duane United Methodist Church) for over 40 years.



She is preceded in death by her parents Aaron and Princess Skyers; sister Veneta (Maurice), brother Edgar and nephew Junior. Merle is survived by her husband Leroy, daughter Prudence, son Gairy (Jenneif), sisters Daisy, Juliet, Lorna "Esmie" and Sonia (Neville); granddaughters Tiara (Mark) and Nicolette. Nieces Keisha, Princess (Jermaine), and Diane. Grandnieces Ahyana, Phoenix and Icylin. Nephews Dwayne and Travis; Grandnephew Josiah. She will be missed by a host of relatives and many loving friends.

You will always see her big beautiful radiant smile when you come in contact with her loving soul. We celebrate the life of our dear Merle. Let us be comforted knowing that she was truly blessed and is now at rest.

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