Brightman "Buddy" James Skinner Jr.

Brightman James “Buddy” Skinner, Jr, passed away on June 14th 2021 and now peacefully resides in his permanent home with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. He was preceded in death by his parents, Brightman James Skinner and Sue Green Skinner and his oldest son, Brightman James “Jamie” Skinner III. He is survived by his devoted wife of 62 years, Mary Ann, and two sons, John Council Skinner and Walter Davis Skinner II and his sister, Martha Sue Skinner Logan and sister-in-law Barbara Council Culbreath, and countless beloved nieces, nephews and cousins. Buddy was the epitome of a southern gentleman and entertained his family and friends with his keen wit and gentle manner with countless stories and adventures. He not only appreciated his loved ones, but greatly enjoyed being out in God’s nature at many hunting camps in Florida and Georgia. Buddy was born and raised in Tampa, FL and later attended prep school at The Webb School in Tennessee before graduating from Emory University Academy. He also attended the University of Florida where he enjoyed his time with the Kappa Alpha Order and became a life-long Gators fan. Buddy served in the Naval Reserve as an air controlman on the USS Intrepid. He later returned to Tampa and graduated from the University of Tampa. Buddy had a keen eye for undeveloped property and was successful in developing many new residential areas in Florida and North Carolina. His likable and easy-going manner enabled him to keep in touch with the many friends he made in school and while in the Navy. He was a member of Ye Mystic Krewe of Gasparilla, Tampa Yacht & Country Club and Merrymakers Club. Buddy will be missed deeply and forever by his family and countless friends. His immediate family invites all extended family and friends to help celebrate his life at his memorial service at noon, Wednesday June 23rd at Palma Ceia Presbyterian Church at 3501 W. San Jose Street, Tampa. A private burial service will be held at Myrtle Hill Memorial Park prior to the service. Donations to a favorite charity in his honor would be appreciated. Thanks be to God for a life well lived!