James Skinner, 69, of Lake Wales passed away Tuesday, Jan. 15, 2013, at the Lake Wales Medical Center.

He was born Feb. 4, 1943, in Lake Wales to the late Teener & Josie A. Skinner; and he was a lifelong resident of the area.

He was a retired fork lift driver for Florida’s Natural and was a veteran of Vietnam, serving in the U.S. Army.

He played in the first youth football team in Lake Wales and played in the youth baseball league. He was an avid archery hunter and enjoyed fishing.

James was preceded in death by his wife, Jean Skinner.

Survivors include his daughter, Rhene Chance (Donald) of Lake Wales; two sons, Deon Skinner and Glenn Skinner both of Lake Wales; two sisters, Annette Rushing and Jackie Berryhill both of Lake Wales; four grandchildren, Leah, Kendall, Jamie and Elizabeth; one great-grandson, Carsen.

Funeral services is 3 p.m. Friday, Jan. 18, 2013 at the Marion Nelson Funeral Home with Rev. David Koon officiating.

Interment is at the Lake Wales Cemetery.

Family will receive friends at the funeral home on Friday from 2 p.m until service time.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.marionnelsonfuneralhome.com.

Marion Nelson Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.