James A. Skibinski Sr., a beloved resident of Centralia, Illinois, passed away peacefully on Friday, March 7th, 2025, at the age of 84. Born on July 20th, 1940, in Richview, Illinois, James lived a life of dedication, hard work, and love for his family and community.
James served his country honorably as a member of the United States Navy from 1958 to 1961, a commitment that instilled discipline and a profound sense of duty in him. After his military service, he dedicated his career to being a laborer and was an esteemed member of the Iron Workers Local 392 in East St. Louis. James retired in 1995, marking the end of a long and successful career.
Jim will be remembered for his unwavering commitment to family, his dedication to work, and his service to the nation. He leaves a lasting impact on all who knew him and will be deeply missed.
He was preceded in death by his parents, James C. and Maude Skibinski, his beloved wife: Carolyn Skibinski, two of his children: Brad Skibinski and Kelly Skibinski, a brother: Phillip Skibinski, sisters: Marjorie Garcia, Mary Street, and Frieda Manion.
He leaves behind a loving family, including his sons: Billy Skibinski of Walnut Hill, James Skibinski Jr. and wife Tina of Sesser, Jeff Skibinski and wife Tender of Centralia, and his daughter, Angie Alexander of Nashville. Jim was a proud grandfather, blessed with numerous grandchildren who will carry forward his legacy of kindness and integrity.
Visitation for James A. Skibinski Sr. will be held at Sutherland-Garnier Funeral Home in Centralia, Illinois, on Friday, March 14th, 2025, from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm. A graveside service will follow at 12:30 PM at the Richview Cemetery, Richview, Illinois, where Jim will be laid to rest with Military Honors accorded by the Centralia American Legion Post 446 and the Centralia VFW Post 2055. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in memory of Jim to St. Jude Children’s Hospital, and will be accepted at the Sutherland-Garnier Funeral Home at 235 North Sycamore Street Centralia, Illinois 62801, (618)532-3523, who is honored to be of Service to Jim’s Family. Online condolences may be made to the family by visiting www.sutherlandfuneralhome.com and the Funeral Home Facebook page.
