Stuart Skinner

Stuart Micah Skinner, 44, of Safford, Arizona, passed away on Wednesday, October 14, 2025. He was born January 1, 1981, in Mesa, Arizona, the sixth child of the late Charles Skinner and Vicki Skinner. 

From his earliest days, Stuart was known for his bright smile and cheerful spirit — a light that continued to shine through both joyful and difficult times. He grew up in Mesa, attending church activities and Mesa schools, where he was involved in sports. His humor and warmth made him a friend to many.

Stuart’s life, like so many, was marked by both hardship and redemption. As a young man, he faced significant struggles and challenges that followed. Yet through those trials, his resilient and generous heart endured. After relocating to Safford, Arizona in his thirties, his life began to take a new course. With the guidance of church and of community mentors, he developed new purpose and skills — learning to work as an air-conditioning technician, and assisting in the maintenance of the Safford rodeo and fairgrounds.

Stuart came to love the Safford community deeply and decided to make it his permanent home. Through his work ethic, warmth, and good humor, he earned the trust and friendship of all that knew him. He later joined the maintenance department of the Safford Unified School District, where his dedication and leadership led to his promotion as head of maintenance. His colleagues and friends there remember his ready smile, his kindness, and his willingness to lend a hand wherever and whenever it was needed.

It was in Safford that Stuart met the love of his life, Diamond Decker. They married and together built a family rooted in love and laughter. Stuart was a devoted husband and proud father to Kyler, Gloryanna, Charlee, and Hesston, who were the joy of his life.

Those who knew Stuart will remember his magnetic energy, his kindness, and the way he made others feel seen and valued. His life, though marked by pain and struggle, was also a story of perseverance, forgiveness, and the quiet heroism of trying again.

Stuart is survived by his beloved wife Diamond Decker Skinner and their children; his mother Vicki Skinner of Mesa; and his siblings Rachelle Skinner Jones, Matthew, Nathan, Benjamin, Heath, and Bethany Skinner Woodruff — all of whom love him dearly and will forever cherish his memory.

“Your smile, your happiness and your kindness touched so many lives. You truly had a heart of gold.” 

— Diamond Skinner