Frank M. Skillman, 92, loving husband and father, passed away Friday, Feb. 1, 2019. Frank was born April 9, 1926, in Warrenton to Clarence and Lula (Hunter) Skillman.
Frank was drafted into the U.S. Army towards the end of World War II and served 1.5 years. He received his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in chemical engineering from the University of Florida (captain of the tennis team) and the University of Wisconsin. Frank worked for DuPont in Kinston and Wilmington and retired in 1988 after over 30 years.
Frank was preceded in death by his brother, Joe Skillman of Lakeland, Florida.
Frank is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 57 years, Virginia (Dumas) Skillman; and their three children, Louise Skillman of Greensboro, Ken Skillman (Kim) of Cumming, Georgia, and Sue Pate (Jimmy) of Shelby; six grandchildren, Joseph Pate, Steven Pate, Daniel Pate, Catherine Pate, Emilee Skillman and Mattie Skillman.
Frank lived a wholesome life as a gentle, compassionate man with the highest level of integrity. He was an excellent tennis player and sang in church choirs for most of his life. Frank cherished God, his family and his church.
Visitation will be held from 6 to 8 p.m., Friday, Feb. 8, at Coble Ward-Smith Funeral Home. A funeral service will be held at 1 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 9, at Grace United Methodist Church.
The family would like to thank the caring staff at Lower Cape Fear Hospice.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Grace United Methodist Church or charity of choice.
Share online condolences with the family at Coble Ward-Smith Funeral & Cremation Service.
