
Douglas John “Doug” Skaff Jr.
Douglas John “Doug” Skaff Jr.
November 10, 1976 – June 10, 2025
Beloved husband, father, son, brother, nephew, public servant, Mountaineer, and community champion
Douglas John Skaff Jr., 48, of South Charleston, West Virginia, was a devoted husband and father, proud son and brother, respected public servant, and passionate West Virginian. He was deeply committed to his church, his community, and to lifting up those around him through both service and kindness.
Doug was born to Doug and Maryann Skaff on November 10, 1976, in South Charleston, WV. From being their first child, to a big brother, and then so much more—the titles continued to grow for Doug. He was destined for greatness and lived that promise with unwavering character and love. A passionate Black Eagle at South Charleston High School, Doug served as student body president, a role he embraced with enthusiasm and leadership. He carried that momentum forward to West Virginia University, where he found his lifelong purpose as a leader and advocate.
Doug earned a bachelor’s degree in Marketing in 2000 and a master’s degree in Industrial Labor Relations and Business Management in 2002 from West Virginia University. In 2012, he was honored with an Honorary Degree in Public Service, recognizing his ongoing commitment to leadership and community.
At WVU, Doug’s influence was unmistakable. He was affectionately known as the “Godfather” of the Mountaineer Maniacs—the university’s famed student athletic booster club—which he founded to unite students in spirit and promote responsible behavior at athletic events. He also co-founded WVUp All Night, a late-night campus program, and led a Youth Summit with Senator Robert C. Byrd for high school leaders.
Like many young professionals, Doug left the Mountain State for a time to pursue career opportunities elsewhere. He spent several years working for Owens Corning, gaining valuable experience and skills. Throughout that period, Doug maintained a strong connection to West Virginia and expressed a heartfelt goal to return home. Recognizing his passion and potential, Owens Corning supported his desire by facilitating a position back in West Virginia, allowing Doug to settle back in the Mountain State and pursue his political calling.
Doug’s love for West Virginia extended into his political career. Elected to the West Virginia House of Delegates in 2008, representing Kanawha County, he served multiple terms, including as House Minority Leader from 2020. His independent spirit and dedication to bipartisan progress led to the decision to run for Secretary of State in 2024. He had also announced his campaign for the West Virginia State Senate in 2026. His legislative focus included economic development, education, and innovation, and he was known for working across the aisle to get things done for the people of West Virginia.
Beyond politics, Doug was an accomplished businessman. He was involved in the Skaff Family enterprises and Building Remodeling Warehouse, and served as President of HD Media, guiding the Charleston Gazette-Mail through a critical period. Doug also co-owned Fazio’s, a cherished Charleston restaurant, further rooting his legacy in the local community. Doug was also a member of The Order of St. Ignatius of Antioch in the Antiochian Orthodox Church and a member of the Delta Tau Delta fraternity at West Virginia University.
Doug’s passion for giving back was evident in his charitable work. He organized Guys Night Out to raise funds for Sojourners Shelter and helped establish the West Virginia Kids Cancer Crusaders. His service extended beyond the community to his church, where he was a proud member of the St. George Orthodox Cathedral in Charleston, WV. Doug’s faith was a cornerstone of his life—he was actively involved in church activities and outreach programs, embodying a commitment to service that reflected his spiritual foundation.
WVU Soccer Chicks and Skaff is our group name. Theresa was our honorary member and this included the whole Skaff family. Doug was also our champion those years and we are all forever grateful for the love and support he provided the new Women soccer team. This loss is impactful on all of us and the state of WV. Thank you Doug and the entire Skaff family. We are incredibly sorry for this tragedy.
Doug was one of the finest men I’ve ever known. His entire family are very, very special. I’ll miss Doug. I’m a better person for having known him. Rest in the arms of God, my dear friend. May He provide great comfort and peace during this difficult time for the Skaff family and the people of West Virginia. Soar high, my friend.
Doug’s legacy will live on! West Virginia was a passion that fueled his soul! May his loved ones find strength in cherished memories. 🙏
Rest in Peace. You will be missed by many.
Our Condolences to the family
Doug was more than the president of the newspaper. He was a friend. He listened if there were issues, business or personal. Football was my connection with him. He will be missed.
So very sorry for your loss condolences and prayers to all
I did not know Doug Jr., but knew his father in the late 60’s at WVU, and if his son was anything like his father he was one of the good ones. My condolences.
Mike Staggers,(Harley).
I’m deeply saddened for your loss and my friend. One of Doug greatest traits was that he worked to be useful to others. He utilized his leadership skills and worked tirelessly hours to build and strengthen the Guy’s Night Out fundraiser for the Sojourner’s Shelter. When asked why “I care about the people you serve”. Marisa and family than you for sharing Doug with us! Prayers
The ripples of the effect of this tragic loss will be felt by his family, friends and community for decades to come. Sad for such a great loss of what was to come in his life. I pray for comfort and peace for his family and for all who knew him and called him friend.
My heartfelt condolences to the Skaff family. I was friends with Doug Jr. and will miss him. His good deeds and friendly personality will live on.
Prayers for Doug Sr. and M.G. as well as as all members of the family.
We thank Doug for his commitment to his community and pouring his heart into everything he did. We will miss cheering with him during our kid’s sporting events and we’ll try our very best to keep that positive spirit going. Condolences to all his loved ones during this challenging time.
-The Signorelli’s
Our deepest sympathies to the Skaff families. Our hearts are broken to hear the tragic loss. Condolences to his wife and 3 beautiful sons. Barbara Farha and family in Jacksonville, Florida
Our sincere condolences to the entire family. May his memory be eternal, and may God bless and comfort you during this time of deep sorrow. His obituary reflects a remarkable life — a person who lived with purpose and left behind a legacy to be proud of. May you find strength in the love that surrounds you and peace in the memories you hold dear.
I am so saddened to hear about Doug’s passing. Rest in peace my good friend. I lived with Doug for a few months when being trained by OC. We were young back then. Doug had an amazing heart, was extremely proud of his family, and knew that one day he would end up in politics. Prayers to Doug and his loved ones.
Sorry to hear of his passing. I knew Doug briefly at WVU, but unfortunately lost touch after graduation. We will keep your family in our prayers.