Henry Paul Skoczalek Jr.

Henry Paul Skoczalek Jr., 77, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, at 9:15 a.m. at Sentara Heart Hospital in Norfolk, Virginia. He was born on August 30, 1948, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Henry is survived by his beloved wife, Nancy Jean Urwiler Skoczalek; his five children, Henry P. Skoczalek III, Christopher P. Demarco, Katherine J. Skoczalek, Jonathan P. Skoczalek, and Sarah J. Madrid; 11 grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. With 19 living descendants, Henry leaves behind a large and loving family who will continue to carry forward his legacy.

Henry lived a life defined by service, resilience, faith, and dedication to others. He proudly served his country during the Vietnam War, where he was wounded in combat after being struck by four bullets in his left shoulder. Despite his injuries, he continued his military career and ultimately retired as a Lieutenant Colonel in the United States Army. He later continued his commitment to public service through his work with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

A proud graduate of La Salle University, Henry deeply valued education and continued pursuing academic achievement throughout his life, including graduate studies. Later in life, he and his wife, Nancy, began a second career together as Catholic school teachers at St. Veronica’s Parish in Philadelphia, where they guided and educated young students with faith, patience, and compassion.

Henry was also a longtime member of Alcoholics Anonymous and was deeply grateful for more than 43 years of sobriety. His commitment to recovery became one of the defining testimonies of his life and a source of strength, hope, and encouragement to countless others.

Henry and Nancy were active members of Holy Redeemer by the Sea Catholic Church. A funeral Mass celebrating Henry’s life will be held at Holy Redeemer by the Sea on May 16, 2026, at 11:00 a.m., with a Celebration of Life luncheon to follow in the Fellowship Hall.

Henry will be remembered for his strength, intelligence, sense of humor, devotion to family, and lifelong commitment to serving others. His legacy lives on through his wife, children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and all those whose lives he touched.

In lieu of flowers, the family would deeply appreciate contributions to assist with funeral expenses or donations to The Beach Food Pantry in Kitty Hawk.

“Well done, good and faithful servant.” — Matthew 25:23

Please share expressions of sympathy with the family at gallopfuneralservices.com. Gallop Funeral Services was entrusted with arrangements.