Richard Skelton Jr. was the son of legendary comedian Red Skelton and actress Georgia Davis. He was a child actor who appeared in his father’s popular TV show, The Red Skelton Hour. He was also a bright and cheerful boy who loved camping and trains. However, his life was cut short by a devastating disease that took him away just days before his 10th birthday.
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A Happy Childhood with a Famous Father
Richard Skelton Jr. was born on May 20, 1948, in Los Angeles, California. He was the only son of Red Skelton and his second wife, Georgia Davis, who was also an actress and a former Miss Georgia. He had a sister, Valentina, who was born in 1947.
Richard grew up in a privileged and loving environment, surrounded by his father’s fame and fortune. He often accompanied his father to his TV and film sets, and even appeared in some of his shows and movies. He was a natural performer, inheriting his father’s talent and charisma.
Richard also enjoyed a normal childhood, playing with his friends and toys. He had a passion for trains, and his father built him a model railroad in their Bel Air mansion. He also liked camping, and his father bought him a tent and camping equipment for his birthday.
A Tragic Diagnosis and a Brave Fight
In 1957, Richard started to feel unwell and complained of fatigue and pain. His parents took him to the UCLA Medical Center, where he was diagnosed with leukemia, a cancer of the blood and bone marrow. This was a shocking and devastating news for the Skelton family, who had to face the harsh reality of their son’s condition.
Leukemia was a deadly disease at the time, with no effective treatment or cure. Richard had to undergo frequent blood transfusions and chemotherapy, which caused him to lose his hair and weight. He also had to stay in the hospital for long periods, away from his home and school.
Despite his suffering, Richard remained optimistic and courageous. He never gave up hope, and tried to make the best of his situation. He continued to smile and joke, and entertained the doctors and nurses with his impersonations and stories. He also kept in touch with his family and friends, and received many letters and gifts from his fans.
A Final Wish and a Lasting Legacy
As Richard’s birthday approached in May 1958, his father asked him what he wanted for his present. Richard said he wanted a red blanket for his mother, who often stayed with him at the hospital. He also said he didn’t want a big party, just a few friends. His father bought him the blanket and the catalogue, and planned to surprise him with a cake and a clown.
However, Richard never got to celebrate his birthday. On May 10, 1958, he passed away in his father’s arms, after saying his final words: “I can’t see. Everything is fuzzy.” He was only nine years old.
Richard’s death was a huge loss for his family and the public, who mourned the death of a beloved child star. He was buried in the Skelton family tomb at Forest Lawn Memorial Park in Glendale, California, along with his father, who died in 1997, and his mother, who died in 2012.
Richard’s life and death were a source of inspiration and compassion for many people, especially his father, who dedicated his career and philanthropy to helping children in need. He also honored his son’s memory by creating a character named Freddie the Freeloader, a clown who wore a red coat and a red hat, similar to the blanket and the catalogue that Richard wanted.
Richard Skelton Jr.’s cause of death was a tragedy that touched the hearts of millions. He was a brave and cheerful boy who lived a short but meaningful life. He was a son, a brother, a friend, and a star, who left behind a legacy of love and laughter.
