Gerald L. Skinner

Gerald L. Skinner of Van Buren, died of natural causes on Friday, November 16, while at a hunting camp with friends. Gerald, age 64, was born in Malvern, Arkansas. He also lived 11 formative years in Silsbee, Texas. Gerald was a recognized, celebrated athlete. Receiving recognition as one of the best sophomore athletes in the State of Texas while at Silsbee High School; and subsequently "All Region, All State" honors at Malvern High School. Gerald then played collegiate football for four years under Coach Frank Broyles for the Arkansas Razorbacks, receiving the Spirit Award for the athlete that best depicted the Razorback culture, and then All Southwest Conference honors while playing for teams that won both the Cotton Bowl and the Orange Bowl. Gerald was then drafted and played Pro Football for the New England Patriots and then subsequently for the Green Bay Packers. Gerald was a graduate of, and received degrees from: Malvern High School, the University of Arkansas, and the University of Central Arkansas. After his football career, Gerald was a teacher and a coach at Conway High School, and then subsequently a Manager at Seabrook FCC and Fort Smith Glass. Gerald is survived by his parents Gerald A. and Jo Ella Skinner of Malvern; his wife, Payne Skinner; his son, Adam Skinner; his brothers, Michael Skinner, Larry Skinner, and Ronny Skinner; a stepson Sam New; his granddaughter, Catherine Skinner, and a step-granddaughter.