Skeens, Ronald Dayton
Ronald Dayton Skeens, age 82, passed away Sunday, July 23, 2023 at his residence. Born May 18, 1941 in Princeton, WV, he was the son of the late Dayton and Alice “Susie” Skeens White.
Ron had a spirit of determination to overcome anything within his path. Rising early to deliver papers in his family’s neighborhood before reporting for school, working part-time at ACME to help supplement the family finances and striving to do what he could to make life easier for his family. Ron showed musical talent early in school and was so gifted that by high school, he joined the Concord Commanders and played saxophone gigs as far away as Nags Head, North Carolina. His musicianship was impeccable, and he continued to play for the community throughout his life. Ron was a soloist and enjoyed music his entire life, and directed his church choir for many years at Rich Creek United Methodist church. He was an active member of the Rich Creek Lions club for many years and never missed working a Friday night bingo of the “Ox Roast”
While his love of music was cut short while serving as the local band and choir director at Narrows High school for many years, he started the next chapter of his life by receiving a degree in school administration from Radford University and becoming a principal. He had tremendous faith in himself and always kept striving. Ron exceeded all expectations due to his spirit of determination. A family man who dearly loved his wife, Clara, and sons, he was there to attend every basketball game and school event. He wanted the best for his boys, and they are a testament to Ron’s dedication as a father. After Clara’s death, Ron met and fell in love with his second wife, Shelia, who has been devoted to making a home and caring for Ron. She has been a blessing and comfort to Ron, making his life easier as his health declined.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his first wife, Clara Mae Hill Skeens; brother, Darrell Skeens; and an infant brother, Melvin Gilbert Skeens. Survivors include his wife, Shelia Skeens of Peterstown, WV; two sons, David Skeens and wife Heather of Riner, VA, and Timothy Skeens and wife Alicia of Lexington, KY; two brothers, James Skeens and wife Gwendolyn of Greenbackville, VA, and Larry Skeens and wife Janice of Madison, AL; one sister, Shirley Weikle and husband Louie of Princeton, WV; three grandchildren, Casey Marie Skeens, Justin Lee Skeens, and Austin Skeens; two step-grandchildren, Kaylie Renea Peak, and Anisley Jane Perdue.
Funeral services will be held 1:00 p.m. Wednesday, July 26, 2023 at the Broyles-Shrewsbury Funeral Home Chapel in Peterstown, WV with Pastor Aubrey Whitlow officiating. The family will receive friends Wednesday, July 26, 2023 from 12:00 pm until time of the service at the funeral home.
The family suggests memorial donations in Ron’s memory be made to the First Presbyterian Church 702 Memorial Blvd, Narrows, VA 24124.
Online guestbook can be signed or condolences may be sent to the family at www.broyles-shrewsbury.com. Arrangements by Broyles-Shrewsbury Funeral Home, Peterstown, WV.