James M Skeens

Devoted educator James Marvin Skeens, 87, a native of Princeton, WV, died on the evening of June 28, 2025, after a prolonged illness. He was the son of Roy Dayton Skeens and Alice (Susie) Cline Skeens. Jim was a graduate of Princeton High School and earned higher education degrees from Concord College, Marshall University, and Morgan State University, with postgraduate studies at Johns Hopkins University.
He began his teaching career at St. Albans High School in Charleston, WV. His teaching was interrupted during the Berlin Crisis when, as a member of the Princeton National Guard, he was called into active duty. Soon after returning, he accepted a position at West Liberty State College near Wheeling, where he taught physical science, astronomy, earth science, and geological science.
While at West Liberty, he served as Vice President of the American Association of Physics Teachers and as chairperson and coordinator of the Ohio Valley National Science Fair for high school students.
In 1967, Jim and his wife moved to Maryland, where he began teaching in the Baltimore County schools. While at Perry Hall Senior High School, Jim was promoted to Department Chairperson. His career spanned over thirty years, concluding at Randallstown Senior High School, where he was credited with developing a magnet program in Medical Technology and Mathematics.
While teaching full-time in Baltimore County, he also served as an adjunct professor at Catonsville Community College.
During the summers, he taught at the Marine Science Consortium at Wallops Island, VA. Working at Wallops acquainted him with the Virginia shore, and upon retirement, he made his home in Captain's Cove, Greenbackville, VA. Among his hobbies were photography, geology, golfing, and fishing in his beloved boat throughout the Chesapeake Bay.
He was a lifetime member of the American Legion and Towson Elks. Jim was also a member of Makemie Memorial Presbyterian Church of Snow Hill, MD, where he served as Trustee and Clerk of Session.
Mr. Skeens is survived by his wife of 63 years, Gwendolyn Morey; his sister, Shirley Weikle (Louie); his younger brother, Larry Skeens (Janice) and multiple nieces & nephews whom he loved dearly.
In addition to his parents, James was preceded in death by his brothers, Ronald D. and Darryll F. Skeens. To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of James, please visit our Tree Store.