CAROL ANN SKINNER

The Life Story of Carol Ann Skinner

"Some people enter a room. Carol Ann Skinner became the room."

Carol Ann Skinner was born on June 15, 1948, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, to Thomas Blackwell

and Barbara White. Philadelphia was more than her hometown—it was the place where she built a

life, raised her family, and created memories that will forever live on in the hearts of those who loved

her. On June 13, 2026, just two days before her 78th birthday, Carol peacefully transitioned, leaving

behind a legacy that can never be replaced.

Carol shared part of her life's journey with Vaughan Winslow Skinner and together they were

blessed with five children: Winessa Skinner, Jeanette Skinner, Geralyn Skinner, Cynthia Skinner,

and Vaughan Winslow Skinner II.

Before becoming a full-time mother, Carol worked as a factory machine operator, a role that

reflected her determination and strong work ethic. Yet, no job title ever meant more to her than being a

mother, grandmother, and the heart of her family.

To her loved ones, she was Mom and Grandmom. To friends, neighbors, and just about everyone else,

she was affectionately known as Ms. Carol—a name spoken with warmth, familiarity, and respect.

Ms. Carol had a presence that could never be overlooked. She didn't just attend family gatherings—she

became the life of them. She was the center of the room, the one whose laughter was contagious,

whose personality filled every corner, and whose energy brought people together. She loved to dance,

tease, joke, and enjoy life. Playful, bold, a little edgy, and full of spirit, she had a personality that could

brighten even the ordinary days.

Her love was unforgettable. It wasn't always gentle, but it was always genuine. She believed in telling

the truth, standing her ground, and loving her family with a strength that couldn't be questioned. It was

the kind of love that held you accountable while making sure you never doubted that you were deeply

loved.

Music was woven into the rhythm of Ms. Carol's life. She loved the timeless voices of Luther

Vandross, Ray Charles, and The Spinners. Whether listening to "Dance with My Father," smiling as

"Hit the Road Jack" played, or singing along to "Love Don't Love Nobody," music wasn't simply

entertainment—it was part of the soundtrack of her life and the memories she created with those

around her.

Family gatherings were never complete without her famous "garbage pot," the one-pot chicken and

rice stew everyone looked forward to. That pot represented more than a meal—it represented home.

Around it, stories were told, laughter echoed through the house, and love was served in every bowl.

One phrase that everyone who knew Ms. Carol will always remember was her signature expression

whenever she wholeheartedly agreed with someone. With complete conviction and that unmistakable

smile, she'd proudly say,

"Right on, Black Brother!"

or

"Right on, Black Sister!"

Those words captured her spirit—encouraging, affirming, and full of pride.

Life gave Carol moments of great happiness and moments of unimaginable heartbreak. She endured

the loss of two of her beloved children, Jeanette Skinner and Vaughan Winslow Skinner II, carrying

that pain with remarkable strength while continuing to love her family with everything she had.

Carol leaves to cherish her precious memory her devoted daughters, Winessa Skinner, Geralyn

Skinner, and Cynthia Skinner; her nine beloved grandchildren: Kareem Skinner, Kayvon Ashton,

Kyheem Tucker, Yvonne Skinner, Vaughan Skinner III, Kiya Wallace, Christina Copeland,

Shineikka Carter, and Eugenia Goodluck; along with a host of great-grandchildren, nieces,

nephews, cousins, extended family members, dear friends, neighbors, and everyone who had the

privilege of knowing Ms. Carol.

Today, while our hearts mourn her absence, we celebrate a woman who loved deeply, laughed loudly,

danced freely, cooked with love, and lived life on her own terms. Her lessons, her strength, her humor,

and her love will continue to guide her family for generations to come.

Though her seat may now be empty, her spirit will forever dance through every family gathering, every

shared meal, every familiar song, and every story that begins with, "Remember when Ms. Carol..."

Her life was a blessing.

Her memory is a treasure.

Her love is a gift that will never fade.

You will forever be loved, forever remembered, and forever missed.