Michael Skipper

Mike played the drums in the band and sang in the choir at Tuscaloosa County High School, graduating in 1973. He then married his high school sweetheart, Sharron Lynne Gore, on November 1, 1974. Continuing his musical pursuits, he attended The University of Alabama and sang in the UA Opera. He dedicated six years of service to the Alabama National Guard and later worked at Witness Wear and Randall Publishing Company.

His calling to the ministry spanned 38 years, during which he served as a Bi-vocational Minister of Music at Big Sandy Baptist Church, Northwood Hills Baptist, Taylorville Baptist, and Northridge Baptist. He was ordained and spent 12 years as a full-time Associate Pastor at Five Points Baptist, where he led worship. He extended this ministry to visiting the sick in hospitals or homes, helping in the church kitchen, organizing trips, and traveling with the senior adults.

Mike’s love for Christian music was evident in his various involvements, from congregational hymn singing and choir participation to quartets and solo performances. His passion extended beyond his enjoyment; he aimed to inspire and engage others in the musical expressions of faith. He consistently encouraged everyone to keep a song in their hearts, reflecting his deeply uplifting and encouraging spirit.

Mike was a constant source of positivity, living with exuberance and spreading it to those around him. His trademark smile brightened his face, mirroring his heart’s genuine warmth. He lived a life of purpose and service, embracing his calling to uplift and touch the lives of those he encountered.

He is survived by his wife: Sharron Gore Skipper, daughters Kristy Skipper Hunt (Joe), and Rebecca Skipper; granddaughter: Kelsey Hunt, sister: Gail Skipper Rushing (Johnny), Brother: Gary Skipper (Barbi), nephew: John Rushing; nieces: Kim Rushing Hobbs (David), Heather Skipper Abel (Daniel), and Holly Skipper. Several great nieces and nephews and special fury friends, Bella and Zoe.

He is preceded in death by his father, Arnold Skipper, and his mother Flora Skipper.

Visitation will be Saturday, August 12, from 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm at Five Points Baptist Church in Northport. Funeral services will be held on Sunday, August 13, at 2:00 pm at Five Points Baptist Church, then a private graveside.

Officiating: Bro. Ken Cheek, Bro. John Jenkins, Bro. Billy Gray, and Bro. Jeremy Burrage.

Pallbearers: Gary Skipper, Joe Hunt, Jim Hinton, Donny Jones, Dusty Jones, Justin Ray, Brad Tucker, and Sean Kemp.

Honorary pallbearers: Dana Murphy, Chris Whitaker, Larry Norris, Cheryl Tucker, Ron Henderson, O’Neal and Elaine Mathis, Adrian Braughton, Don & Annie Williams, Jerry Tidmore, Donny Crawford, Zack and Amanda Jones, Danny Hall, Jackie Hinton, and past accompanists.

Posthumous honorary pallbearers: Kenny Fretwell, Rick Jarman, Arnold Sanford, Wayland Dunn, and Danny Guyton.

Special thanks to: Drs. Siddiqui, Shakur, Azom, Bevil, Abney, Bryd, Barry, Aryenpure, Carraway, Justin Sisk, and West Alabama Hospice.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly welcomes donations to the Tuscaloosa County High School Choral or Band Department. Contributions can be made by dropping off or mailing checks to Tuscaloosa County High School in Honor of Mike Skipper. Alternatively, donations can be made online at tchschoir.ludus.com. Your generosity will continue Mike’s legacy of fostering a love for music and faith in future generations.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.SunsetBrown-Funeral.com for the Skipper family. Sunset Brow-Service Funeral Home is honored to serve the Skipper family during their time of bereavement.