Vance V. Skinner, 56, Kills Himself at Lucama Store, May 20, 1924

Vance V. Skinner Kills Himself in Store in Lucama. . . Well-Known Merchant. . . Had Been in Ill Health for a Long Time; Son Had Just Left Store When Shooting Took Place. . . Well Known and Esteemed in the Community in Which He Lived

Shooting himself through the head, Vance V. Skinner, 56, years old, killed himself instantly in his store house at Lucama in Wilson county at 11 o’clock this morning. His son, W.C. Skinner, who was in partnership with this father in the merchandise business, had just left the place when the shooting was done. Mr. Skinner evidently had the revolver ready and the moment his son disappeared, he drew the weapon and fired. No inquest was deemed necessary.

The Lucama neighborhood was greatly shocked over Mr. Skinner’s tragic end, and many expressions of regret at his demise were to be heard. Mr. Skinner had been in failing health for a long time, his condition constantly growing worse. It was regarded as plainly a case of suicide induced by poor health.

Surviving Mr. Skinner are three sons and one daughter, Messrs. W.C. Skinner of Lucama; Ernest Skinner of Wilson, and Floyd Skinner of black Creek, and Mrs. Clarence Moore of Wilson.

The funeral services will be Tuesday afternoon at 3 o’clock from the home of Mr. W.C. Skinner, conducted by Elder George W. Boswell. Interment will be at the Contentnea cemetery.

From the front page of the Wilson Times, May 20, 1924