1924 - 12/15/2017

Loyson "Skeets" Mahoney died December 15 in Mesa, AZ, just shy of his 93rd birthday. Born in Logan, IA, in 1924, his family moved to Omaha and he graduated from South High School.

He played his saxophone in numerous bands after graduation, and played with the Mort Wells Orchestra on WOW radio and later TV, sometimes doing skits with Johnny Carson. In the 50's Skeets had his own band, then went to Omaha University, receiving a Degree and beginning his teaching career.  After six years in smaller locales, he moved back to Omaha and taught 22 years in the Omaha Public Schools at North High, Bryan High and Norris Junior High.

Upon retirement in 1987, he relocated to Mesa, AZ, and embarked upon a second musical career. He played in and/or directed numerous big bands and combos and for five years had his own dance band. Just a few weeks before his death, he played in a local club's jam session.

Skeets is survived by his wife of 37 years, Julie; his daughters: Diane Hill of Omaha, Janice Mahoney of Virginia, Peggy Helms (John) of Omaha, and Lois Schmahl (Henry) of Tennessee; five grandchildren; and 13 great grandchildren.

A CELEBRATION of Life will be held in January in Arizona. Memorial gifts may be made to Skeets' favorite charities: smiletrain.org, or ffrf.org, or the charity of your choice.