James W. Skinner, Jr., age 39, of Dubuque IA, formerly of Davenport, IA, completed his earthly journey on February 13, 2024, at home while surrounded by his loving family.  To honor James’ life, a Celebration of Life will be held in Chicago, IL at a later date.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving James’ family.

James was born on April 7, 1984, in Chicago, IL, a son to James Wesley Skinner Sr. and Patricia Ann Martin. He was naturally gifted with an intrinsically intelligent disposition combined with a creative streak which blended perfectly to help him become the man he desired to be.  After attending college, James spent the majority of his working career in the customer service department with Bank of America.  He enjoyed helping others and found satisfaction in his daily responsibilities.  James also made the most of his free-time whenever possible as life needed a balance between work and play.  He thoroughly enjoyed creating music when time allowed, but was also content to keep up with the latest games as well, especially when his Green Bay Packers were taking the field.  He was also quite comfortable in the kitchen and always enjoyed creating his next delicious meal for those around him to savor.  James was a jokester at heart and never missed the opportunity to share his quick wit and humor with anyone willing to step into his sights.  But, first and foremost, James loved spending time with family and friends.  His ability to slow down and simply take in the companionship of those he loved was where his greatest moments were to be found.  Our hearts break beyond measure today at the mere thought of the Lord calling James home so early in his life.  We know that he is now at peace from his earthly battles with cancer, but our hearts only seek a portion of the peace he now embraces in our absence.  Thank you, James, for the memories you leave behind and for all the love you shared along the way and may the Lord keep you safe in His loving arms until we all meet again.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of James include, his three children, Gabriel Jo’Ziah Stoddard, Payton Skinner, and Jasiri Alaya Skinner; his parents, Patricia Martin, Chicago, IL and James Skinner, Sr., Chicago, IL; his siblings, Michelle E. Martin-Oyesanya, Gary, IN, Danyale R. Martin, Chicago, IL, and Ebony J. Martin, Dolton, IL; his nieces and nephew, Cherrell Martin, Teliyah Martin, and Maurice Martin; along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

James was preceded in death by his grandparents, Elizabeth Myers and Wilbert Martin, Sr.; his uncles, Jerry Martin, Gregory Martin, and Wilbert Martin, Jr.; and his aunt, Yvonne Skinner.

James’ family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Hospice of Dubuque for all of their professional and compassionate care.

Online condolences may be shared with James’ family at www.tristatecremationcenter.com