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Charleston, WV – Douglas J. Skaff jr., a prominent West Virginia businessman, politician, and fervent West Virginia University (WVU) alumnus, passed away unexpectedly on August 26, 2024, at the age of 48. His death has prompted an outpouring of grief and remembrance from across the state.
Born in Charleston, Skaff’s dedication too West Virginia and WVU was a defining characteristic of his life. He earned a bachelor’s degree in marketing from WVU in 2000, followed by a master’s degree in industrial and labor relations and business management in 2001. His college experience instilled a lifelong passion for the university, which he actively promoted throughout his career.
After graduating, Skaff gained experience at Owens Corning, holding positions in human resources, distribution, marketing, and management. he later returned to West Virginia, driven by a desire to contribute to his home state.
skaff’s public service began with his election to the West virginia House of Delegates, representing Kanawha County from 2008 to 2014 and again from 2018 to 2023. He rose to become House Minority Leader from 2020 until his resignation in 2023, when he announced his candidacy for secretary of State – a race he was actively pursuing at the time of his death. He had also previously announced intentions to run for the State Senate in 2026.
Beyond politics, Skaff was a notable figure in West Virginia’s media landscape, serving as president of HD Media, which owns the Charleston Gazette-Mail and The Herald-Dispatch of Huntington. He also demonstrated his entrepreneurial spirit by partnering in the purchase of fazio’s, a well-known Italian restaurant located on Capitol Street in Charleston.
Skaff was deeply involved in community service, volunteering his time and resources to various organizations. He served on the WVU Alumni Association Board of Directors and, most recently, held the position of interim executive director of the West Virginia Press Association. He was a member of the Kanawha County Bar Association.
To honor Skaff’s legacy, the Douglas J. skaff Jr. Mountaineer Spirit Scholarship has been established. Contributions can be made
