Friends and family gathered along the waters of West Meadow, a place close to his heart, to celebrate the life of Austin Masom Skerritt of Stony Brook—a beloved son, friend, and merchant marine—who passed away unexpectedly at 34.
A graduate of Ward Melville High School and SUNY Maritime College, Austin served in the private marine industry, working primarily out of Louisiana. His maritime career took him across the globe, where he supported offshore drilling and military operations as a deck officer aboard supply ships. Dedicated and driven, he was well on his way to becoming a ship’s captain.
“Austin was a great swimmer who took naturally to the water,” said his father, Maurice Skerritt. “He was a patriot who loved his country and truly enjoyed his career at sea.”
Austin made his home in Charleston, South Carolina, where he embraced a variety of interests beyond his work, including art, fashion, and music. His journeys took him to ports around the world—from Thailand and New Zealand to the Dominican Republic, Hawaii, and throughout Europe—fueling a love for adventure and global culture.
He was known not only for his skill and dedication as a mariner but for his warmth, generosity, and optimism. “He was very thoughtful and always looking to help others,” said his cousin, Clifford Masom. “He gave the best advice and was a positive soul—a real pleasure to be around.”
Austin was predeceased by his mother, Diana, and is deeply missed by his father, Maurice, cousins Clifford and Steven Masom, beloved girlfriend Antonella, and many international shipmates, SUNY Maritime alumni, and lifelong friends. His loyal dog, Spotty, as charismatic as he was, also mourns his absence.
Whether surfing, swimming, diving, or fishing, Austin felt most alive in and around the ocean. His spirit, like the tides he loved, will never be far from those who knew him best. “May God hold you in the palm of his hand until we meet again,” said his father, whom he called “The Walrus.”