Harris Spong McSkimming

Harris Spong McSkimming passed away peacefully on August 6, 2021, with his family surrounding him. Born in Youngstown, Ohio on June 13, 1936, he was a minister of 64 years and founder of Graceway Ministries in Schenectady, New York. His congregants and the communities he served affectionately called him by his nickname, Pastor Mac. Like his heavenly father, Pastor Mac had a heart for people, especially young people. He traveled the country preaching at children's crusades, where he became known for his "magic" tricks and relatable message. At Graceway Ministries, he was a spiritual father to all those around him; mentoring, counseling and equipping people to live their best life. He loved to pray and meet with his many Pastor friends who he also encouraged and mentored. He was a frequent missionary to Kenya, where he supported Graceway Chapel in Kitale. He enjoyed boxing, sailing, and Ohio State football. Pastor Mac is survived by his best friend and wife of 62 years, Monica; his daughters Pamela Mizelle (Marlon), Nalene Vanderpoel (Mark), and Robin McSkimming; his grandchildren Chad Mizelle (Kathryn), Kailey Vargas (Aaron), Alex Vanderpoel (Chloe), Cody Mizelle, Janae Vanderpoel, and Carissa Vanderpoel; and his great-grandson Macario Vargas. A memorial service will be held at Crossroads Community Church, 2583 Thornhill Road, Auburndale, FL 33823 on Friday, August 13, at 3 p.m. The family will also be having a Celebration of Life service in New York at Bethel Full Gospel Church, 3625 Guilderland Ave., Schenectady, NY 12306 on Saturday, November 6 at 11 a.m. In lieu of flowers, the family would like to continue the legacy Pastor McSkimming began by supporting a home for girls in Kitale, Kenya. Binti House takes in girls who have become pregnant through sexual abuse and teaches them life and parenting skills. 100% of all donations will be given to Binti House through Bethel Full Gospel Church. Pastor Mac's family rejoices because of his deep and abiding faith in Jesus Christ and the promise that we will one day be reunited in Heaven.