James Michael Skyrm, known as Jim by those who loved him, passed away Thursday, Oct. 23, with his loving wife of 43 years, Sally, by his side.  Jim was born July 25, 1955, in Cheverly Maryland to Phillip Skyrm and Marion Walker. Raised in Greenbelt, Jim graduated from Suitland High School class of 1973 and Prince George’s Community College class of 1975 with a degree in criminology.

Jim started his career in law enforcement as a Baltimore City police officer before taking a position with Prince George’s County Police Department where he retired as Sergeant in 2002. He went on to work at the National Institute of Health from 2002 to 2004, before accepting a position for the Department of Homeland Security Federal Law Enforcement Training Center (FLETC), Cheltenham, Maryland, where he retired as a Senior Instructor in 2024.

Jim dedicated his life to serving the public and was recognized as Police Officer of the Year in 2000 for his exceptional contributions to law enforcement. During his time with Prince George’s County Police Department, he also received multiple Gold, Silver and Bronze Medal of Valor awards, five Chief’s awards and six unit citations. Jim was also recognized with a Directors Recognition Award for Outstanding Service in the Hurricane Katrina Relief Response and multiple outstanding performance awards while working at FLETC.

More than anything, Jim was a patriot and a family man who adored his wife, children and grandchildren. His grandchildren brought the most immense joy to his life. Named Khaki in memory of his beloved grandfather Ira Van Tassel, Jim spent his days playing and dancing with his grandchildren, cheering for them at soccer games, and showering everyone around him with smiles, silly jokes and love. He was a light in the world that leaves a beautiful and lasting warmth that won’t be forgotten.

Jim is survived by his wife Sally Skyrm, stepmother Catherine Skyrm, sisters Marcia Caple and Dee Webster, brother Phil Skyrm, children Sarah Branyan, James Skyrm Jr., Heather Skyrm and Jessica Frostbutter, and grandchildren Isabella, Annabel, AJ, Judah, Elijah, Emilia, Adam, Matthew, Lucas, Nathan and Hannah. He is preceded in death by his mother Marion Walker, stepfather Bob Walker and father Phillip Skyrm, along with siblings Steven Skyrm and Robyn Messineo.

Those who loved Jim are invited to join family for a celebration of life on Saturday, Jan. 17 from 12:00 noon to 4:00 p.m. at FOP Lodge 89 located at 2905 Old Largo Road, Upper Marlboro, MD 20772. Guests are encouraged to wear bright colors.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests a consideration of a donation to St. Jude Children’s Hospital.