Ernest "Ernie" A. Skinner

On July 30, 2026, Ernie Skinner, 93, of Arcadia, Florida, formerly of Bridgeport, W.Va. and Pittsburgh, Pa. died peacefully at home after a brief illness. He was surrounded by his daughter and friends who loved him.

 

His nephews Johnny Skinner and Alan Terranova, flew in at the blink of an eye to visit Ernie a few days before his passing. Each visited on different days but swore to nurse Steven that they were his favorite. But the question remains - who was his favorite? His new “bestie” Sandy is seasonal and flew in to spend the week. As well, his other good friend and neighbor Oli who never left his side. He was surrounded by love, laughter, and a lot of story sharing.

 

Born in Clarksburg, W.Va. on December 2, 1932, Ernie graduated from St. Mary’s High School in 1950 and proudly served in the U.S. Marine Corps. After his honorable discharge, he earned a BS degree in Business Administration from Salem College.

 

Ernie started his professional career with PPG Industries, Glass Division. He was promoted and transferred to Crestline, Ohio. After five years in Ohio, he brought his family back to W.Va. where he excelled as Plant Manager for Guardian Industries. He received many awards and recognitions throughout his career.

 

Ernie was a rare breed: a genuinely kind and gentle soul who went through life with an unfailing smile, an infectious laugh, and an uncanny ability to be loved by literally everyone he met.

 

He finally made his triumphant migration south to Florida in March of 2025 to be close to his daughter. His daily schedule mostly consisted of spreading good vibes, soaking up the warmth, and reminding everyone around him that life is best taken lightly.

 

He loved his Florida community and all the weekly events. His military service and remarkable heart were proudly recognized when he was wrapped in love and tradition with a Quilt of Valor, a recognition he cherished deeply.

 

He danced for the first time in years while living in Florida and made some special friends. He was nicknamed, “Ernesto the Besto" by one of his dance partners and good friend. It didn’t take long for that name to stick.

 

Ernie grew up with four brothers and a sister in an area of Clarksburg dubbed “Kelly Hill”. The stories of those days will always be remembered, cherished, and bring us laughter as the brothers loved sharing their stories of growing up together over the years.

 

One nephew Johnny always said that if ever there was a five man comedy team, Ernie and his brothers would have made a great podcast. Another nephew Ricky said he cherished the times when all the brothers were together. He said we would all sit back and watch the comedy show and let them share stories.

 

Beyond his family, Ernie had one true, unwavering loyalty: The West Virginia Mountaineers. Win or lose, his allegiance never wavered, and game day was always a sacred tradition of passion, spirit, and loud cheering. He and his brothers enjoyed his famous bologna and pepper sandwiches, which was a staple for game day.

 

Ernie is survived by his daughter, Beth Terranova. He was preceded in death by his parents, Giovanni and Mary Skinner; his son Mark Skinner; his wife Carolyn Skinner; four brothers and a sister, and many other beloved family members.

 

He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, legendary family stories, unmatched Mountaineer pride, and family and friends who will miss his gentle heart and sense of humor.

 

Ernie didn’t want a funeral with visitation. There will be a service in Florida when the season starts and everyone is back. Also, there will be a get together in the coming months in Bridgeport, W.Va. to celebrate his life.