Steve and Becky Skillman

“Steve and I are pleased and proud to have established the Steve and Becky Skillman Community Fund,” shared Becky. “No matter where life’s journey takes us, Lawrence County will always be home.”

Steve and Becky Skillman’s story is deeply rooted in Lawrence County, where they both grew up as “rural kids.” Steve graduated from Fayetteville High School, and Becky from Tunnelton High School. Their paths first crossed when Steve was 16 and Becky just 12. Steve worked after school carrying out groceries at Louden’s Supermarket, often helping Becky’s mother with her groceries while Becky tagged along. Years later, their friendship blossomed into romance, and they married in 1969. Their son, Aaron Burke Skillman, was born one day before their tenth anniversary.

Steve built a career in management at General Motors, retiring in 2006. A natural athlete, he played high school basketball and spent two decades playing slo-pitch softball. His true passion, however, is golf—he’s been “shooting his age” since turning 66.

Becky’s early involvement in 4-H sparked a lifelong interest in community service, politics, and government. At just 25, she won her first election and went on to serve Lawrence County for 16 years, followed by 12 years in the Indiana Senate and eight years as Indiana’s Lieutenant Governor. Becky broke multiple barriers, becoming the first woman elected as State Senator for District 44, the first woman in Senate Majority Leadership, and the first woman elected as Indiana’s Lt. Governor. Today, she continues her public service through board leadership and volunteer work, including with the Lawrence County Museum of History.

“We want to give back to the community that has been so supportive of our family. It was the wonderful and constant support of the people of Lawrence County that allowed me to pursue my passion for helping our smaller cities and towns and rural communities thrive and grow,” explained Becky. “We want the best quality of life for our friends, family, and all residents of Lawrence County. We know no better way to provide a lasting contribution than partnering with the Community Foundation. Although we may know the needs of the community today, we trust the Community Foundation to understand and address the needs of tomorrow.”