Billy Dee Skinner Jr., 74, of Quitman, Texas, passed away on May 6, 2026. He was born on April 2, 1952, in Terrell, Texas, to Billy Skinner and Elda Maydonna Osborne Skinner. Though his early years took him to places such as Lewisville and Grapevine, Texas, Billy made his home in Wood County beginning in the 1980s, where he built a life rooted in service, faith, and family.

On June 24, 1977, Billy married the love of his life, Deborah Lantrip. Together they shared a devoted partnership of nearly five decades, raising a family and creating a home filled with laughter, faith, and unwavering love.

Billy was a faithful member of Forest Hill Baptist Church, where he served as a deacon and Sunday school teacher. His steady presence, gentle spirit, and deep commitment to his church family were hallmarks of his character.

A dedicated law enforcement officer for 30 years, Billy served with integrity and courage. His career included work as an airport police officer at DFW Airport, undercover assignments, and leadership roles as a police sergeant and captain. He later served as Sheriff for ten years and retired from the Wood County Sheriff’s Department in 2004. His colleagues and community knew him as a man of honor, fairness, and quiet strength.

After retirement, Billy embraced the joys of everyday life, He loved to cook and bake. He was an avid fisherman who found peace on the water. But of all the titles he held, his favorite was “Dado.” His grandchildren were the light of his life, and he cherished every moment spent with them.

Billy was preceded in death by his parents Billy and Elda Skinner.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Deborah Skinner; daughters Staci (Aaron) Vander Schaaf and Christi (Spencer) Emmert; siblings Vicki Clark, Terry (Randie Sue) Skinner, Jesse Skinner, and Dan (Jan) Skinner; grandchildren Bonnie, Sadie, Erin Faith, and Corrie Vander Schaaf, and Brody, Mitchell, and Chip Emmert; along with numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends who will miss him dearly.

Services will be held at 2:00 PM on Monday, May 11, 2026, at First Baptist Church in Quitman, with Pastor Terry Skinner officiating. Interment will follow at Mt. Pisgah Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 5:00–7:00 PM on Sunday, May 10, 2026, at Lowe-Gardner Funerals & Cremations.

Billy’s life was one of service, devotion, and love. His legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched.