Bernard Wilson Skean

Bernard Wilson Skean, 74, of Kenova, WV peacefully passed away on January 28, 2026. Bernard, known lovingly as “Bernie” was born on July 17, 1951 at Rife Hospital in Kenova and was raised by his parents Irena and stepfather Glen Irons. In life, he served our country faithfully as a Master Mechanic in the Navy for 18 years. The Navy fostered a lifelong love for aviationexemplified through his personal love of flying and constructing aircrafts in his spare time. His enthusiasm for flying could only be matched through his love of music. He could be heard playing music with his band “The Country Boys” at the former diners known as “The Chatterbox” in Kenova and “Dorthey’s” in Steptown. It was not uncommon to hear the twang of his guitars and banjos any day of the week, playing the melodies ofanything from Johnny Cash to Lynyrd Skynyrd. Bernie was the foundation of his family, personifying what it means to give your life to your loved ones. The workday never ended, and neither did the love for his family. He will be greeted in Heaven by his mother and father, his brothers Franklin and Gary Skean, his eldest daughter Crystal, and his beloved wife Ida Carol. In life he is survived by his daughters Courtney (Rhodney Kholer) Skean, Julia (Pat) Maloney, and Debra Freeman, his grandchildren Mackenzie Reffitt, Michael Reffitt, Hayden Wright, Parker McComas, Preston Tolliver-Skean, Zion Burnes, Malachi Burns, and Naomi Burnes, and his great-grandchildren Riley Reffitt, and Bentley Wright. He is also survived by many friends, fellow service members, bandmates, and loved ones who will forever sing a song and share in his memory.

Funeral services will be held 2:00 P.M on Friday, February 6, 2026 at Rollins Funeral Home. Visitation will be held 12:00-2:00 P.M. Burial will follow in Docks Creek Cemetery- Maple Hill Section for immediate family. Casual dress is encouraged to honor Bernie’s legacy, cowboy boots, jeans, and Carhartt’s are encouraged. A time for fellowship will be held at 5:00 P.M. at New Beginnings Church of God, 1616 Poplar St. Kenova, WV. Rollins Funeral Home is assisting the family. Online condolences may be expressed at www.rollinsfh.com.