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A popular postman who was described as ‘one of the nicest men’ has died suddenly after decades serving the community. The devastated family of Garry Skeggs, 53, of Dover, have paid tribute to the “most wonderful” dad, grandad, husband, son and brother.
Garry, who died on Tuesday (September 5), worked for the Royal Mail for more than three decades, starting when he was only 17. He was perhaps best known for his ‘warm personality’ and left a mark on everyone he met.
The family told KentLive: “We are devastated to have lost the most wonderful dad, grandad, husband, son and brother. Garry brightened everyone’s day who he came across with his infectious smile and warm personality. We will treasure the memories and well wishes received by everyone.”
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The community has raised more than £1,100 to support the family by setting up a crowdfunding page. Those who launched the fundraiser described him as “the heartbeat of the village. Many Martin Mill residents, an area on Garry’s route, shared their memories of the well-loved postman.
Ruth Jackson said: “I’ll never forget how me and my friend were struggling being wimps about climbing a ladder to install some Christmas lights on my gutter. Garry was passing and had a little chuckle about how pathetic (my words certainly not his!) we were being and offered to help.
“He stormed up the ladder reaching across to hang the lights as me and my friend stood holding the ladder in total amazement. Garry always remembered my name even when away from home. He was always genuinely caring about how I was and was such a happy and kind man. He will be missed by so many.”
Kayleigh Hunter has been living in Martin Mill for only three years, but said she was shocked to hear about Garry’s death. She said: “Such a horrible shock. We have only been in the village for three years and have always looked forward to seeing him, such a lovely character, we will miss him.
“For anybody who is close to his family, please do share any funding/details should anything be set up for/by his family, would love to contribute in some way. RIP to a wonderful man, thinking of his family.”
Resident Hannah Porter remembers the impact he had on the village. She said: “Our sadness goes to show how much of a special man he was and the impact he had on our village. I could always tell when he was on his way round as he was always laughing. He will be sorely missed, thinking of his family and friends.”
James Wright said Garry would make conversation every day with residents. He said: “He was so nice to everyone when he didn’t need to be, could have just done his job but he took the time to know our names and make conversation every day, he truly was one of the nicest men I’ve ever met.”
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