Ward Sherman Skidmore, 74, of Morgantown, passed away at the home of his daughter and son-in-law, Nicole and Shawn, on Dec. 15, 2022. Ward was born in Morgantown on Oct. 12, 1948, to the late Frank Skidmore and Lillian Morgan Skidmore.
Ward worked as a coal miner for many years to provide for his family. He also worked as a bargeman on the river and later worked for WVU. When he wasn’t working, he enjoyed hunting, fishing and camping and operated a small farm. Ward cared for his family and especially provided excellent care for his wife, Barbara, as her health declined. They truly cared for one another throughout their entire lives.
Ward was a kind, unassuming and funny man. He loved to make others laugh and sometimes played some amusing pranks. He was also everyone’s favorite Santa and loved to play the part to make the holidays special. Above all, Ward loved spending time with his family no matter the occasion.
Ward is survived by his daughters, Nicole Paugh (Shawn), of Morgantown; and Kimberly Ann Ballantyne (John D.); grandchildren, Keely Stiles (John), Levi Stiles, Austin Paugh, Alyvia Paugh, Nick Ballantyne (Caitlin), Emily Ballantyne (Keith) and Lillian Ballantyne; brothers, Chuck (Edna) Skidmore, Harry (Cherrell) Skidmore and Rob Skidmore; a sister-in-law: Bonnie O’Neal; and several nieces, nephews and friends.
Family and friends are invited to gather at McCulla Funeral Home, 770 Fairmont Road, from 1-2 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 18. A funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. with Pastor Shawn Frasher officiating. Following the service, Ward will be buried alongside his wife at Eden Cemetery.
Condolences:
www.mcculla.com
