Claire Thornhill Skinner

Claire Thornhill Skinner, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, teacher, coach, and friend, passed away peacefully on February 5, 2025. Born on July 5, 1939, in Charlotte, NC, to Archbold and Marceil Thornhill, Claire’s life was one filled with a passion for sports, education, and family.

A proud graduate of Central High School in 1957 and Catawba College in 1961 where she met her dear friend Flo Peck. Claire was an outstanding athlete, playing competitive slow-pitch softball, where she met the love of her life, Thomas McVay Skinner II. Together, they shared many years of happiness, supporting one another through every challenge and triumph.

Claire dedicated her career to education, teaching physical education and health at both Charlotte Catholic and Valleydale High School. Her impact as a teacher went beyond the classroom, as she also coached girls’ basketball and girls’ volleyball, inspiring countless young women with her leadership and dedication.

In addition to her high school coaching career, Claire achieved a remarkable milestone in the world of sports. As a coach of her son’s Pony League baseball team, she made history as the first female coach to win a North Carolina State Pony League Championship, a testament to her skill, determination, and passion for the game.

Above all, Claire, (aka Maw Maw and Granny CC) was a devoted family member, cherishing every moment spent with her family, siblings and their families. Her love for her family was immeasurable, and she found immense joy in their presence, always ready to support and share in their lives.

A lifelong lover of all things sports-related, Claire enjoyed playing and watching any game she could. Whether on the field, the court, or in the stands, her enthusiasm for sports was contagious.

Claire’s legacy lives on through her family, students, and players who were fortunate enough to know her. She will be remembered for her strength, kindness, and unwavering commitment to those she loved. Claire was preceded in death by her husband Thomas M. Skinner II, sisters Marceil Hoyle (Hop) and Ginger Evans (Bobby), and brother Jimmy Thornhill (Betty Sue) and brother-in-law Hobby Cobb. She is survived by her son, Scott Skinner (Karen); daughter, Kim Skinner; sister, Jane Cobb; grandson, Brad Skinner (Erin); granddaughter' Lauren Young (Dillon); great-granddaughter, Aubrey Young and many other family members and friends who will miss her deeply.

A memorial service to celebrate Claire’s life will be held at McEwen Funerals & Cremations at Forest Lawn West, 4601 Freedom Drive, Charlotte, NC with a visitation from 10:00 am until the time of her service at 12:00 pm, Saturday February 22, 2025. Burial will be in Forest Lawn West Cemetery following the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Hospice of the Piedmont in High Point, NC, in recognition of the compassionate care provided during her final days.

Claire’s legacy will live on through the lives she touched, and she will be forever remembered for her kindness, her love of life, and her unwavering devotion to her family and community.

Condolences may be submitted at www.forestlawnwest.com