Obituary: Joseph Howlett Skinner Jr.

Joseph Howlett “Joe” Skinner Jr., 65, of Littlestown, died Monday, Oct. 12, 2026. He was born Sept. 29, 1961, and grew up in Laytonsville, Maryland.

Skinner began volunteering with the Laytonsville Volunteer Fire Department at age 16. He later served 27 years as a career firefighter with Montgomery County, Maryland, retiring as a master firefighter. He was named Firefighter of the Year twice. He continued his public-safety work as a Carroll County fire inspector and retired from that position in August.

He and his wife, Karen, were married for 43 years and raised their family in Mount Airy, Maryland. He enjoyed motorcycles, time with his family and grandchildren, and the companionship of his dog, Finn.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by a son, JT Skinner and wife Jami; a daughter, Nikki Skinner and fiancé Wesley Croft; and grandchildren Jacob, Kennedy and Zachary Skinner.

A casual celebration of life is scheduled from 2 to 5 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 15, at the Mount Airy Volunteer Fire Company Reception Hall, 1008 Twin Arch Road, Mount Airy. Read the complete funeral-home obituary and condolences page.