Henry Donald Skinner, Sr.

Henry Donald Skinner, Sr., 77, of Grovetown, Georgia, passed away peacefully on October 23, 2026, surrounded by his loving wife and children, following a courageous battle with cancer.

Born in Augusta, Georgia, on December 17, 1948, to the late James Edward Skinner, Sr. and Cora Beatrice Sullivan Skinner, Don was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather whose strength, warmth, and kindness resonated in every interaction. He held a deep commitment to serving others and helping those in need. Don was a proud graduate of Butler High School and later attended Augusta University, where he earned his Associate Degree.

Don enjoyed a dedicated, lifelong career in banking, beginning at SunTrust Bank and culminating in his retirement from First State Bank. Renowned for his warm handshake and genuine smile, Don treated every customer with exceptional care, respect, and personal attention.

Beyond his professional life, Don was deeply invested in his local community. From his early years, he volunteered extensively and coached a variety of youth sports throughout the CSRA. Driven by a heart for public service and a desire to make his community a better place for all, he honored his civic duty through service on numerous boards and committees, including the Augusta Regional Transportation Study, the Recreation Advisory Board, the Planning Commission, the Board of Tax Assessors, and most recently as the District 2 Commissioner on the Columbia County Board of Commissioners.

While community service was a cornerstone of his life, family always came first. Don was a devoted and loving husband to his wife, Darlene, with whom he shared 58 wonderful years. An avid golfer, he cherished time spent on the greens as a member of Green Meadows Country Club, Bartram Trail, and West Lake Country Club. He also loved spending time on the lake, creating lasting memories with his family while boating and fishing. A man of steadfast faith, Don frequently shared the Gospel through his love of Gospel music and was an active member of The Sanctuary.

He was preceded in death by his parents, James Edward Skinner, Sr. and Cora Beatrice Sullivan Skinner, and his brother, James Edward Skinner, Jr. He is survived by his beloved wife, Darlene Skinner; his two children, Henry Donald Skinner, Jr. (Susan) and Sherry Lynn Allen (Mark); his four cherished grandchildren, Brandon Skinner, Joshua Allen, Erin Skinner, and Jacob Allen; his sisters, Jean Waters and Angela Chavous (Mark); many beloved nieces and nephews; and his loyal dog, Cody.

Don’s legacy of service, kindness, and love will live on in the hearts of those who knew him. Although he will be deeply missed, his family finds comfort in the assurance of eternal faith and knowing they will be reunited with him one day.

The funeral service will be held Tuesday, October 27, 2026 at 2:00 P.M. in the chapel of Thomas Poteet & Son with Pastor Bryan Cockrell officiating.  Interment will follow in Hillcrest Memorial Park. Honorary pallbearers will be the Columbia County Commissioners.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Wellstar Cancer Center, 1411 Laney Walker Boulevard, Augusta, GA 30912.

The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service, beginning at 1:00 P.M., at Thomas Poteet & Son Funeral Directors, 214 Davis Rd., Augusta, GA 30907 (706) 364-8484. Please sign the guestbook at www.thomaspoteet.com