Jim Skaggs

James Clarence Skaggs was an American actor who is best known for his roles in Gunsmoke, Death Valley Days, and The Six Million Dollar Man.

Personal and Family Life

Born on January 15, 1932, in Rawlins, Wyoming, Jim Skaggs was the only child of Noah Clarence Skaggs and Verdon Marie VanDevender Skaggs. He joined the army during the Korean War, where he served as a tank commander. Jim married Carol LaNea Reese in 1952, and they had six children together. After Carol’s passing in 1987, he married Adria Eason Chavis in 1988, who had two sons from a previous relationship.

Career

Jim had a diverse career that included acting and stunt work for various television series and movies. He performed in shows like Gunsmoke and Death Valley Days and appeared in films such as Outlaw Josie Wales and Rough Night in Jerico. He also ran a Melodrama Theater in Kanab, Utah, for 13 years and later opened another in Thermopolis, Wyoming. Beyond acting, Jim worked in the insurance industry and served as a county planner, emphasizing community service throughout his life.

Death and Legacy

Jim Skaggs passed away on February 1, 2018, at the age of 86, in Basin, Wyoming, while living at Bonnie Bluejacket Nursing Home. His wife, Adria, was at his side during his peaceful passing. He left behind a legacy of love, service, and commitment to his family and faith, having significantly impacted the lives of many, including young men he guided as a house parent.

Filmography