Keith “Skippy” Skipworth, age 94, of Park City, peacefully departed this life on Friday, May 15, 2026, at Signature HealthCare of Glasgow, surrounded by the love and memories of a life well lived. A native of Cumberland County, Skippy was born on November 16, 1931, to the late Ralph and Mallie Huff Skipworth. He shared a beautiful marriage of sixty-nine years with the love of his life, best friend, and helpmate, Phyllis Madison Skipworth, who survives him.
After marrying Phyllis, Skippy began a dedicated career with National Store Company in Glasgow, where he faithfully worked for fifteen years. He later found his true calling as captain of the Miss Green River with Green River Boat Concessions at Mammoth Cave. For thirty-five years, Skippy welcomed countless visitors with his warm smile, kind spirit, and gift for conversation. He never met a stranger and genuinely enjoyed sharing stories and making others feel at home.
Outside of work, Skippy found joy in the simple blessings of life. He loved cheering on UK basketball, spending time on his farm, caring for his cattle, and being outdoors whenever he could. Above all else, however, his greatest happiness came from the time he spent with his family. Whether gathered around the table, sharing stories, or simply enjoying one another’s company, those moments meant the world to him. Skippy was a man of deep faith and devotion. He was a longtime and faithful member of Fairview General Baptist Church, now known as Hillside Baptist Church, where he continued to nurture the faith that guided him throughout his life.
In addition to his beloved wife, Phyllis, those left to cherish his memory include— his children, Steve Skipworth (Julie) of Temple Hill and Karen Maxwell (Bobby) of Glasgow; his treasured grandchildren, Adam Glover (Rachel), Jacob Glover (Azra), Robert Skipworth, Eric Skipworth, Rebecca Gatlin (Reed), and Lynsey Maxwell; and his precious great-grandchildren, Livi Glover, Mila Glover, and Rudie Gatlin. He is also survived by his sisters, June Morris and Sue Hatcher, along with several nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends who will forever hold his memory close to their hearts. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Donald “Buck” Skipworth.
The interment will be in Rocky Hill Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to: Rocky Hill Cemetery Fund, c/o Donna Short.
Funeral service is 11 a.m. Thursday, May 21, at Patton Funeral Home Park City Chapel. Visitation is Wednesday from noon to 7 p.m., and Thursday from 9 a.m. until time of service at the funeral home.
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