Richard Donald Skinner

Richard Donald Skinner, 84, long time Bartlesville resident died Thursday, March 30, 2023 surrounded by family. Richard was born in Fort Smith, Arkansas on February 15, 1939 to Richard Lee Skinner and Georgia Kathleen (Condren) Skinner. He grew up in Greenwood, Arkansas on the family’s farm. He attended a Methodist pre-school in Fort Smith, prior to attending Greenwood Public Schools. He was active in band, and played saxophone in the Jazz Cats band. He ran a grade C dairy during high school as a way to make extra money. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree in chemical engineering from University of Arkansas in Fayetteville. He continued his chemical engineering education at Oklahoma State University, where he earned his Master of Science and Ph. D. and developed a love of research. He said the best advice he received was from his parents and their encouragement of his college education. He continued his love of learning, education and research his entire life – a trait he passed on to his daughters and grandchildren. While at Oklahoma State University, he was introduced to another graduate student, Sandra Sue Hadwiger. They married on August 18, 1963. He considered his decision to marry Sandra the best decision of his life. He appreciated the fact they were both raised on farms and their differences complemented each other to form a great partnership. Upon graduation, Richard accepted a position with Phillips Petroleum Company, and the couple moved to Bartlesville. He held many research related positions. While he enjoyed his career in chemical engineering, his love was always farming. His childhood dream was to become a farmer, a dream he fulfilled with his lifetime connections to farming. Richard was happiest when he had a project. Whether coordinating a home addition, working in the lawn, helping grandkids with research or building snow boards, he could be found planning and working on projects. Family was extremely important to him. From an early age, he learned the value of investing his time with family. He fondly remembers time with his grandparents, and extended family. His favorite activities always centered on the interests of the people he loved, especially his grandchildren. He attended many musical, theatrical, and athletic events. He was affectionately called “Grandpa” by many. Richard was a gentleman in every sense of the word. In his quiet and kind way, he shared his wisdom and wit freely, while loving unconditionally. He is survived and will be dearly missed by his family: Wife: Sandra Skinner Daughters: Jana Russell and her husband, Steve; Nancy Davis and her husband, David; LeAnn Skinner Grandchildren: Jonathan Russell and his wife, Melanie; Natalie Kingery and her husband, Bryan; Nathan Davis and his wife, Marya; Matthew Russell and his wife, Allie; Kellen Sapp, and Andrew Sapp. Great Granddaughter: Ruth Russell, who he called Lil’ Blue Eyes Nieces and Nephews: Roxanne Churchill, Mickey Hadwiger, Billy Williams, Greg Barr, Cynthia Farley, Jennifer Morgan, Teresa Sparks, and their families. Brother and Sister in Laws: Bill Williams, Jim and Rozella Hadwiger, and Donna Barr. Richard was preceded in death by his parents, sister (Wyona LaVon Williams), sister and brother-in law (Larry and Sharon Sparks). A celebration of Richard’s Life will be held 11:00 AM on Saturday, May 6 at Disciples Christian Church, where he found community as a long time and active member. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to: Disciples Christian Church 5800 Douglas Lane Bartlesville, OK 74006

Richard Donald Skinner

February 15, 1939 - March 30, 2023