**Douglas “Doug” John Skaff Jr Death.
November 10, 1976 – June 10, 2025**
At a Glance
Name: Douglas “Doug” John Skaff Jr.
Age: 48
Died: June 10, 2025
Location of death: Interstate 79, near Weston, West Virginia
Occupation: Former Delegate, Media Executive, Community Advocate
Survived by: Wife Marisa; sons Andrew, Elias, and Alexander
Early Life & Education
Doug Skaff Jr. was born November 10, 1976, in Charleston, West Virginia, and raised in South Charleston. A proud product of the local public school system, he was elected student body president both in high school and later at West Virginia University. At WVU, he earned degrees in Marketing and Labor & Industrial Relations, and helped launch long-lasting campus programs like WVUp All Night and the Mountaineer Maniacs.
🏛️ Political Career
Doug entered the West Virginia House of Delegates in 2008 and served nearly 11 years over multiple terms. As House Minority Leader, he was known for bipartisan collaboration, economic development initiatives, and outreach to underrepresented communities.
In 2023, Doug switched political parties to run as a Republican for Secretary of State. Though his campaign was not successful, he signaled plans to run for State Senate in 2026—a race that, tragically, he will never see.
🗞️ Journalism & Business Leadership
Doug’s commitment to truth and transparency extended beyond politics. As President of HD Media, he protected and advanced local journalism through papers like the Charleston Gazette-Mail and Huntington Herald-Dispatch. He also served as Interim Executive Director of the West Virginia Press Association.
His colleagues remember him as a “fierce advocate for local media” and a strategic thinker who modernized the newsroom while preserving its civic roots.
🍝 Entrepreneur & Community Builder
In 2024, Doug helped save Fazio’s Italian Restaurant, a Charleston staple. More than a business transaction, it was an emotional investment. He described Fazio’s as a “place that brings back Sunday dinners, Sinatra, and stories”—and he kept it that way.
He also supported local youth sports and coached his children’s soccer teams, embodying hands-on fatherhood with the same dedication he gave to state policy.
❤️ Personal Life & Character
Doug Skaff Jr. was a devoted husband to Marisa and proud father to three sons: Andrew, Elias, and Alexander. Whether at the dinner table, on the sidelines, or attending Mass, Doug’s family was his compass.
In 2024, after surviving a venomous copperhead bite while collecting campaign signs, he publicly reflected on the fragility of life:
“I’m blessed just to walk again. Every step now has meaning.”
🕊️ Legacy & Tributes
Doug’s passing elicited a chorus of heartfelt tributes:
Governor Patrick Morrisey: “Doug was omnipresent in the Charleston community. His voice will be missed.”
Rep. Riley Moore: “He loved his boys deeply. Coaching with him was a joy.”
Senate President Randy Smith: “Even across party lines, Doug showed kindness and respect.”
WV AFL-CIO: “He was a principled ally of working families.”
Flags were lowered in Kanawha County. Social media overflowed with remembrances from voters, students, journalists, and colleagues.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: When did Doug Skaff Jr. die?
A: Doug Skaff Jr. passed away on June 10, 2025, following a car crash on Interstate 79 near Weston, West Virginia.
Q: What was Doug Skaff known for?
A: He was known for serving as a West Virginia delegate, Minority Leader in the House, President of HD Media, and a passionate advocate for local communities and journalism.
Q: Did Doug Skaff have a family?
A: Yes, he is survived by his wife, Marisa, and their three sons.
Q: What legacy did Doug Skaff leave?
A: Doug Skaff’s legacy includes bipartisan political leadership, preservation of independent journalism, community revitalization efforts, and a life devoted to faith, family, and service.
🔚 Final Words
Doug Skaff Jr. lived as a bridge-builder. Between parties, professions, and people, he forged connections with sincerity, humor, and resolve. He leaves behind more than titles—he leaves behind a state forever shaped by his spirit.
May we carry forward his legacy: serve with humility, lead with vision, and love without measure.
