Billy Baker Skipworth

Billy Baker Skipworth of Little Rock, Arkansas, passed away on April 25, 2025, at his home, surrounded by his loved ones.

Baker was born to Norman Columbus Skipworth and Treba Elizabeth Skipworth in Kingsville, Texas on November 17, 1939.

On September 1, 1960, he married Martha Sue “Susie” James whom he had known since 6th grade.

After graduating from H.M. King Highschool in 1958, Baker worked nights on a drilling rig and went to school during the day to earn his college degree from Texas A&I/A&M Kingsville, Texas in 1963 with a bachelor’s in business.

Shortly thereafter he joined Humble Oil & Refining/ ExxonMobil. His career spanned 37 years of rewarding challenges in the drilling exploration & production departments. This association allowed him to travel extensively throughout the U.S.A. and the world and to experience some great relationship. He and Sue were fortunate to have lived in Norway, Singapore, Japan, Malaysia, and the U.S.A. Baker also worked in Egypt, Africa, France, Burma, and Thailand.

Baker had an uncanny ability to consider all mankind as equals and treated them as such.

In retirement, Baker and Sue chose to live in April Sound, Montgomery, Texas. He truly enjoyed his days on the golf course with the “Yonks” as well as Thursday “Lunch Bunch”, the Romeos. Baker also appreciated the fellowship and worship at both April sound and Mims Baptist churches. Included in his retirement activities, they traveled through the 50 states of the U.S.A. as well as 6 continents.

Throughout his life, Baker found strength and encouragement in his relationship with Jesus Christ and his participation in various churches in different parts of the world. As time permitted, he was a member of several church choirs. He also found time to donate his time and funds to several civic and charitable organizations. Later in life he took up vegetable gardening and would often share his bounty with others. Baker had a deep love for his family and country. He spent 4 years in the U.S. Marines Reserve.

To cherish his memory, Baker leaves behind two sons, Dodson Skipworth and James (Angela Eme) Skipworth, grandchildren Ben, Olivia, Joshua, and Max Skipworth, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family.

We will remember his strong work ethic, his commitment to family, his enjoyment of sports (Go Astros), and his wonderful sense of humor.

Both his father and mother preceded him in death as well as his brothers Norman and Donald Ray.

Baker is to be buried in Chamberlain Cemetery where many family members are resting in peace.