John James Skinner Jr.

John had over 37 years of law enforcement experience, serving in many capacities including line, supervisory, command, and administrative management positions. He served as the Chief of Police of the City of Manassas, Virginia, from April 1998, until his retirement in May 2010. Prior to his time in Manassas, he was the Chief of Police of the City of Fairfax, Virginia Police Department, retiring from the role in 1998. Earlier in his career, John served as a member of the United States Secret Service – White House Police and as a clerk for the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

John was a proud 1974 honors graduate of American University in Washington, D.C., earning a Bachelor of Science degree in the Administration of Criminal Justice. He also completed postgraduate work in Public Administration at George Mason University. John graduated with honors from the Federal Bureau of Investigation National Academy/University of Virginia and further advanced his expertise through Executive Police Development at Penn State University and the Federal Bureau of Investigation Law Enforcement Executive Development School.

Beyond his distinguished career, John was known for his sharp wit and great sense of humor, often delighting close friends with his quick jokes and playful banter. He cherished grabbing a good meal with family, friends, and colleagues, sharing laughter and camaraderie over the simplest moments. An avid walker, John appreciated the serenity of a stroll around the neighborhood or along the Neuse River in New Bern North Carolina. John found great joy in spending time with his family and exploring the St. Lawrence River in upstate New York’s Thousand Islands. He will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to his community, his enduring love for his family, and his adventurous spirit.

Leaving behind to honor and cherish John's memories and legacy are his loving wife, Shirley Skinner; son, Aaron Skinner and his wife, Kate; daughter, Jessica Skinner; grandchildren, Ainsley and Evie; brother, Scott Skinner and his wife, Kelly and Nick Skinner and his wife, Marion; sister, Jeanne Caskinette and Nancy O’Connor; sister-in-law, Jana Skinner; and many loving family members and close friends.

John is preceded in death by his brother, Gary Skinner.

Services will be announced at a later date.

Cotten Funeral Home is honored to serve the family and friends of John James Skinner Jr.