Brian Skinkle

Brian Skinkle, age 64, of Hot Springs, passed away on Saturday, October 21, 2023.

He was born on December 6, 1958, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, the son of Elwin Skinkle and Louise Robins Skinkle.  He was preceded in death by his parents and grandparents; and his father-in-law, George "Butch" Bates.

Brian was a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, friend, teacher, and therapist. His love for his family and people knew no limits. His ability to listen and provide gentle guidance was a gift, and his reassuring presence was shared with all those he loved and all those he taught or counseled. No matter what else might be happening in his life, he was always ready to pour richly into the lives of those around him and see the best in them when others might not. He took joy in creating a safe place for those who were near him whether it was at home, in the band hall, at church, or in his counseling office. As he dealt with cancer, he walked a difficult journey with strength and grace, spending as much time as he could continuing to pour into others. In the final days of his life, he was celebrated by the words of so many as they related the impact he had on their lives. As time grew short, he was surrounded by his family who loved him beyond measure as they celebrated his life and the instantaneous healing he had as he entered into the presence of the Lord. 

He is survived by his loving wife of 39 years, Susan Skinkle; his daughter and son-in-law, Sarah and Brian Fowler of Greenwood; his son, Steven Skinkle of Hot Springs; five grandsons, Gavin King, Bradyn Harris, Landon Harris, Henry Skinkle and Sabastian Skinkle; his sister and brother-in-law, Sharon and Ken Stults of Zeeland, Michigan; his brother and sister-in-law, Jeff and Carolee Skinkle of Jackson, Michigan; his mother-in-law, Roxie Bates of Atlanta, Texas; two sisters-in-law and their husbands, Melanie and Stacy Fischer of Linden, Texas and Stephanie and Michael Jones of Queen City, Texas; several nieces, nephews, extended family members and a host of wonderful friends.

Visitation will be held 6:00PM until 8:00PM, Tuesday, October 24, 2023, at the funeral home.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00PM, Wednesday, October 25, 2023, with Pastor Greg Bearrs officiating in the Smith Family Funeral Home Chapel, Hot Springs.

Interment will be 11:00Am, Thursday, October 26, 2023, in the Douglassville Cemetery, Douglassville, Texas.

Pallbearers are Jeff Skinkle, Ken Stults, Steven Skinkle, Brian Fowler, Philip Skinkle and Greg Skinkle.

Guest registry is at www.smithfamilycares.com.