James Skinner

James A. Skinner was born on February 4, 1935, to James Skinner and Ruby (Wolverton) Skinner. His mother died when he was four and his younger years were spent with different families and schools until his grandmother Mame (Skinner) Baker, took him into her home at about age 10. He graduated from Lucas High School and joined the U.S. Navy in 1954 — for four years.

On September 23, 1955, he was united in marriage to Bonnie Lou Rouse, the daughter of Jake and Golda (Mundell) Rouse at Goshen Baptist Church by Rev. Archie Beals. Two children blessed this union: Katherine Louise on February 14, 1959, and Donald James on October 1, 1972. Most of their married life was spent in Lucas County.

In 1960, Jim accepted Christ as his Savior under the direction of Evangelist Russell Farrell. He was baptized in July 1960 by Pastor Archie Beals and became a member of the Goshen Baptist Church. Jim suffered many physical trials, but claimed the promise of salvation and a home eternal in heaven with Jesus.

Time spent with his family, especially the grandchildren, were the highlights of his life as he grew older. His car hobby was well known.

He was preceded in death by his mother, father, infant sister and only brother Tom.

Those who remain to cherish his memory are his wife, Bonnie; his children, Kathy (husband Ken), Donald (wife Jen); grandchildren: Blake, Shelby, and Samson Loynachan; great-grandchildren Kylee Rae and Sam Jr.; sister-in-law Rita; brothers-in-law Bob (Janice) and Jerry (Kathy); and many nieces and nephews.

Services were 2:30 p.m., Tuesday, May 25, 2021, at Goshen Baptist Church near Lucas. Visitation was held two hours prior to the service at the Fielding Funeral Home in Chariton. Interment was held at Goshen Cemetery following the service.

Memorials may be made to Veterans Park in Chariton or Hope Ministry in Des Moines. Online condolences may be made to www.fieldingfuneralhomes.com.