Amelia Sklar

Amelia Antionette Sklar, a treasured resident of Palm Harbor, Florida, passed away unexpectedly in her home on Sunday, November 2, 2025, at the age of 81. Born on November 30, 1943, in Staten Island, New York, Amelia was proud of her roots and often shared stories of her upbringing. She was the beloved daughter of Angelo Charles and Emelia D’Aiello and a devoted sister to Joseph, Frank, and John D’Aiello, all of whom preceded her in death.

Throughout her life, Amelia demonstrated deep compassion and an unwavering spirit. From a young age, she took on the responsibility of raising her eight nieces and nephews following their father's early passing. The bonds she formed with Charlie, Yanna, Joseph, Dorothy (DJ), Michael, beloved Frank, Victoria, and beloved Steven D’Aiello were pillars in her life.

Amelia began her working career at her family's produce market, Aiello’s Produce, and later served as a secretary in Manhattan. Her journey eventually led her to North East Pennsylvania, where she met and married Donald Aaron Sklar, a union that brought two adult children into her life: Susan Sklar and Richard Sklar. She embraced her role as a step-grandmother to Adam, Eric, and Savanna Sklar, expanding the warmth of her family even further.

In the early 1980s, Amelia and Donald relocated to Florida, settling in Oldsmar. It was here that her passion for painting and chocolate converged as she opened five chocolate shops, including one at Tampa International Airport. Amelia showed remarkable resilience when her husband underwent a significant brain tumor operation, diligently maintaining their businesses with the support of family and employees. During this challenging time, she also cared for her brother John, who had Cerebral Palsy, as well as her father-in-law and mother.

Amelia was not only a dedicated entrepreneur but also an educator. She pursued her studies at St. Pete College and went on to share her love of art as a teacher at Temple Ahavat Shalom’s religious school, as well as a preschool teacher at the Kent Jewish Community Center. After the passing of her husband Donald in 1994, she channeled her devotion into a more than 20-year career advocating for individuals with disabilities. A single parent, she instilled strength and independence in her daughter, Amanda Rose Sklar, who along with her son-in-law, Michael Paul Perkins, survives her.

Amelia’s legacy is further carried on by her grandchildren: Michael Kenneth Perkins (14), Nico Ray Perkins (7), Luca Gino Perkins (3), and her adult grandchildren, Alisha, A’Rhiauna, Aundra, and Alivia, as well as four great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her beloved nieces, nephews, and many great-nieces and great-nephews.

Amelia will be lovingly remembered for her extraordinary intellect, striking beauty, and remarkable skills as an advocate. Her love of learning was evident in her passion for solving crossword puzzles and she found immense joy in helping to raise her grandsons right up until her passing. Amelia’s strength, quick wit, and ability to make those around her laugh were defining aspects of her personality; she thrived on connecting with others and lending a helping hand wherever possible. It was often said, "She made the best chicken nuggets," a testament to her nurturing spirit and culinary talents.

Amelia is laid to rest next to her brother John and son Kenneth at Parklawn Memorial Cemetery in Dunedin. Her memory will forever resonate in the hearts of all who knew her.

Only G-d could love her more.

As she would say, “See you later alligator…”

Heritage Funeral Care, David and Steven Gross Directors, Largo Fl are serving the family