Hershal Arris Skeet was a son, brother, nephew, cousin, and friend. Hershal left this world too soon on December 25, 2024, but the love and memories he leaves behind will remain with us forever.
Hershal was born on August 28, 1998, at 1:55 PM, at Zuni PHS in Blackrock, New Mexico. From the very moment he entered this world, he made an impact. His parents, Nina and Harris, welcomed him with open arms and hearts full of pride. He was their beautiful, healthy baby boy, and as he grew, he became a source of immense joy and pride for everyone who knew him.
Hershal’s childhood was marked by his love for his community and family. He attended the FACE program and preschool in Pinehill, New Mexico, before moving to Holbrook, Arizona, where he continued his education. A proud graduate of Holbrook High School in 2011, Hershal excelled in his studies and activities, becoming a dedicated member of the cross-country team. He also earned his welding certificates through the NAVIT program, proving his drive and determination to learn new skills.
But it wasn’t just school that shaped Hershal; it was his deep connection to family and his many jobs over the years. He spent summers back in New Mexico, working with the summer youth program in Ramah and helping his family around the house. He also worked for various companies, from helping at SW Transmissions in Holbrook to assisting at Ballard Truss in Snowflake, Arizona. He was never afraid to roll up his sleeves and help wherever needed.
One of Hershal’s most remarkable qualities was his willingness to serve others. As a wildland firefighter in Fort Defiance, Arizona, he showed bravery and dedication to his community, risking his safety to protect others. His work ethic and sense of responsibility were truly extraordinary, and his kindness shone through in everything he did.
But Hershal was much more than his accomplishments. He was an adventurous soul, always eager to explore new places and embrace new experiences. He loved to travel, and many of us remember his trips with Auntie Reedie—driving to places like Warm Spring, Oregon, Neah Bay, Washington, and all the way up to Vancouver Island. His curious spirit was matched only by his ability to make lasting connections with the people he met along the way.
As much as Hershal loved to explore the world, he also cherished his time with family. His “random pop-up” visits—where he would simply stop by to check in and make sure everyone was doing okay—became a cherished part of our lives. His easy-going nature, infectious smile, and carefree laugh filled any room he entered. Hershal had an ability to bring light into even the darkest days, and it’s something we will all miss so much.
To his family, Hershal was the epitome of kindness and love. His absence leaves a void in all of us, but we take comfort in the fact that his spirit will forever live on in the stories we share, in the laughter we remember, and in the ways he shaped each of us. We will miss his smile, his jokes, and his quiet strength.
Hershal was not one to complain or argue. He was always the calm in the storm, the friend you could count on without hesitation. His genuine heart and laid-back personality made him the kind of person everyone wanted to be around. Whether he was driving on long road trips, working hard to help those in need, or simply spending time with his family, Hershal left an impression that will never fade.
As we say goodbye today, let us remember the gift of Hershal’s life. Let us remember his adventurous spirit, his love for family, his willingness to help others, and, most importantly, his infectious joy. His time with us may have been shorter than we wanted, but it was filled with more love, laughter, and light than we could have ever asked for.
Hershal, we love you, and we will never forget you. Your smile, your kindness, your spirit will remain in our hearts forever. Thank you for being the amazing person you were. Rest in peace, dear Hershal.
Never Forgotten
