Henry Skipper, former Flowery Branch mayor, dies at 96

Henry Skipper, a former mayor and city councilman for the city of Flowery Branch, died Tuesday at the age of 96.

 

Skipper, a native of Greenville, South Carolina, served in the United States Navy during World War II before he began his civilian life in Georgia.

 

Current Flowery Branch Mayor Mike Miller said the first time he met Henry Skipper, he knew right away how much Skipper loved his country.

 

"He greeted me the first time I met him the same way I witnessed him greet others for the first time. He would let them know he served in the Navy by saying 'I went into the Navy a Skipper and I came out of the Navy a Skipper!.'" Miller said. "He was a great American that proudly served our country and our city.  My prayers are with his family during this difficult time as they handle the loss of a great man."

 

In addition to his military service, Skipper was a dedicated educator. He obtained his Master's degree in history and physical education at the University of Georgia, teaching at several schools in North Georgia before wrapping up his 36-year career at Oakwood Elementary School. 

 

According to city documents, Skipper was Mayor of Flowery Branch from 1984 to 1988. 

 

In light of the coronavirus pandemic, the family will have private services for Henry Skipper and then host a celebration of life at a later date.

 

Memorial Park Funeral Home in Gainesville is in charge of arrangements for Henry Skipper.