June 20, 2025 - Albert “Al” M. Skinner, 95, of Charleston, WV, the renowned publisher of Coal People magazine later known as Mining People, on June 17, 2025 joined his loved ones in heaven after a brief illness.

“I remember so well the first time Al came to see me in my office in Irwin, PA when I worked for Irwin Sensenich and Huwood-Irwin (now Irwin Mine & Tunneling Supply) in 1976, to explain his exciting plans for launching a brand-new magazine Coal People,” said Bill Reid, Managing Editor of CoalZoom. “Little did he know then, that he would become instantly recognized attending coal events around the coalfields, and would become a legendary figure in his field, contributing so much to his beloved coal industry and to its fine people that he loved and cared about deeply. Al will be missed by us all!.”

Born in Clarksburg, WV, Al graduated from Notre Dame High School in 1948 and proudly served four years in the U.S. Navy. After his honorable discharge, he earned a journalism degree from West Virginia University.

Al Skinner

Al began his career as a sports editor for the Fairmont Times. Later moving to Charleston, he became a PR Director for several companies. He soon launched his own advertising and publishing firm, Al Skinner Enterprises, and in 1976, founded Coal People magazine.

Al remained actively involved as publisher for nearly 50 years. The magazine will celebrate its 50th anniversary in April 2026—a legacy he was incredibly proud of.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Giovanni and Mary Skinner; his daughter, Cheryl Ann Skinner, pictured with Al, and many other beloved family members.

Al is survived by his children, Jon (Junko) Skinner of Alaska, Christina (Kip) Martin of Charleston, and Alan (Courtney) Terranova of Weston, WV; eight grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; brother, Ernie Skinner of Florida, and his beloved dog, Marcus, who will be under the care of Christina and Kip Martin.

Along with being very kind and soft spoken, he had an unmatched sense of humor. Al loved attending Mountaineer football games and camping with his brothers.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Al’s memory to Kanawha-Charleston Humane Association, 1248 Greenbrier Street, Charleston, WV 25311. Memorial service will be held at 6:00 p.m. on Friday, June 20, 2025, at Barlow Bonsall Funeral Home, 1118 Virginia Street East, Charleston, WV, with Rev. Karin Ritchie officiating.

Visitation will begin one hour prior at the funeral home. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.barlowbonsall.com. Barlow Bonsall Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements.