Dorothy Skinner

Dorothy Jean Turner-Skinner was born on August 22, 1937, to the proud parents of Edward and Clara (Wofford) Turner. Edward and Clara raised Dorothy and her eleven siblings to love and respect God and His word in the high weeds and rich red soil of Fincastle, Texas.

Dorothy received her formal education from Bethany Elementary and LaRue High School, where she graduated valedictorian of the class of 1957. Shortly after that, she moved to Dallas, Texas, where she enrolled in Madam C. J. Walker Beauty College and graduated as a licensed cosmetologist in 1958. She also became a member of the Grand Court of Calanthe, an organization for professional African-American women. While establishing herself in Dallas, Dorothy met and eventually married the love of her life, Arthur Lee Skinner, Sr. The couple would have a son, Arthur Lee Skinner Jr., who later had a beautiful baby girl (Artravia) and a set of handsome twin boys (Arthur and Lee).

Dorothy Skinner was indeed a testament to great faith.  She endured the loss of her husband, her only child, and all her siblings and was a cancer survivor and pacemaker recipient.  Through it all, she remained steadfast in her walk with Christ. She often said, “God is number one” and “Baby, always remember to pray.”

She was the matriarch of the Turner family and became an “Aunt Dorothy” to many in the broader community. All will remember her perseverance, giving, laughter, love, and, more importantly, how she celebrated life!

Cherished memories will be in the hearts of her grandchildren, Artravia Skinner, Arthur Skinner III (Kassidy), and Lee Skinner (Brianna); her great-great-grandchildren, Christian Skinner, Aspen Skinner, and Hayden Skinner.  Her nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends will also miss her dearly.

Dorothy Jean Skinner transitioned from the earth and watched her first sunrise from heaven on August 15, 2022, ushered into the loving arms of her Heavenly Father, saying, “Well done my good and faithful servant.”