Billy Dee Skinner Jr., 74, of Quitman passed away May 6, 2026. A longtime Wood County law enforcement officer and former sheriff, Skinner spent more than three decades serving the community before retiring in 2004.
Skinner was born April 2, 1952, in Terrell to Billy and Elda Maydonna Osborne Skinner. After living in several North Texas communities, including Lewisville and Grapevine, he settled in Wood County during the 1980s.
He married Deborah Lantrip on June 24, 1977, and together they built a family centered on faith and community service.
Throughout his career in law enforcement, Skinner worked as an airport police officer at DFW Airport and later served in undercover assignments, as well as in supervisory positions including sergeant and captain. He eventually served 10 years as Wood County Sheriff before retiring from the Wood County Sheriff’s Department.
In addition to his public service, Skinner was active in Forest Hill Baptist Church, where he served as a deacon and Sunday school teacher.
Following retirement, he enjoyed cooking, baking and fishing, and spent much of his time with his grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Survivors include his wife, Deborah Skinner of Quitman; daughters Staci Vander Schaaf and husband Aaron, and Christi Emmert and husband Spencer; siblings Vicki Clark, Terry Skinner and wife Randie Sue, Jesse Skinner, and Dan Skinner and wife Jan; grandchildren Bonnie, Sadie, Erin Faith and Corrie Vander Schaaf, and Brody, Mitchell and Chip Emmert; along with numerous extended family members and friends.
Funeral services were held on Monday, May 11, at First Baptist Church in Quitman with Pastor Terry Skinner officiating. Interment followed at Mt. Pisgah Cemetery.