Meet Lumis Joseph Beyoncé Jr., better known as “Skip” – the late uncle of global superstar Beyoncé. While Beyoncé’s incredible career and personal life have been in the spotlight for decades, less is known about the extended Knowles-Beyoncé family, including Skip.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the life of Lumis Joseph Beyoncé Jr., from his early years in Texas to his untimely passing in 2016.
Who Was Lumis Joseph Beyoncé Jr.?
Lumis Joseph “Skip” Beyoncé Jr. was born on July 10, 1949 in the coastal city of Galveston, Texas. He was the son of Lumis Albert Beyoncé and Agnes Dereon, and the older brother of Tina Knowles, who would later become Beyoncé’s mother.
Skip grew up in the 1950s and 60s in a close-knit African American family. The Beyoncé surname, which Skip shared with his father, would later inspire the first name of his world-famous niece. Throughout his 66 years of life, Skip remained deeply connected to his Texas roots and his large extended family.
Early Life and Family Background
Skip Beyoncé spent his childhood and teenage years in Galveston in the 1950s and early 60s. His father Lumis Albert worked as a longshoreman, while his mother Agnes raised Skip and his younger sister Tina.
The Beyoncé family was part of the vibrant African American community in Galveston. They attended church together, enjoyed big family meals, and placed great importance on familial bonds. From a young age, Skip was surrounded by love, laughter and a strong sense of kinship.
Parents and Siblings
Skip’s parents, Lumis Albert Beyoncé and Agnes Dereon, were both born and raised in Louisiana before relocating to Galveston. Lumis Albert, who shared his name with his son Skip, worked hard as a longshoreman to provide for his wife and children.
Agnes Dereon Beyoncé was a homemaker who was known for her vivacious spirit and unshakeable faith. Together, Lumis Albert and Agnes instilled their deep love of family, respect for elders, and pride in their African American heritage in both Skip and his sister Tina.
Tina Knowles, born Célestine Ann Beyoncé in 1954, was Skip’s younger and only sibling. The two maintained a close relationship throughout their lives, with Tina often speaking fondly of her big brother.
Relationship with Sister, Tina Knowles
As the older brother of Tina Knowles, Skip shared a special lifelong bond with his sister. With just a five year age difference between them, the siblings grew up side by side, experiencing the joys and challenges of childhood together.
Tina, who would go on to become a successful businesswoman and fashion designer, often credited her brother with being a positive role model and support system throughout her life. The Beyoncé siblings remained tight-knit even as they entered adulthood and Tina became a mother to daughters Beyoncé and Solange.
In interviews, Tina has described Skip as a kind, funny and loving brother who always looked out for her. The affection between the two was evident, and their bond was a testament to the strength of the Beyoncé family ties.
Education and Career Path
While details of Skip’s education and career are not widely known, it is believed that he attended schools in Galveston before entering the workforce as a young adult. Like many in his family and community, Skip likely held various jobs over the years to support himself and his loved ones. He was known for his strong work ethic, a trait that he surely passed down to his hard-working nieces.
Although Skip never achieved the same level of fame as his sister Tina or niece Beyoncé, he undoubtedly made valuable contributions to his community and was a beloved figure to those who knew him best.
Personal Life
While Skip mostly stayed out of the limelight, he was known to be a devoted family man who adored his nieces Beyoncé and Solange. He attended many of their performances and milestone events over the years.
Beyoncé, who was born in 1981, was given her unique name as a tribute to the Beyoncé family surname that originated with Skip’s father Lumis Albert. This special connection between uncle and niece was a source of pride for Skip.
Although he never married or had children of his own, Skip found great joy and fulfillment in his role as an uncle. His fun-loving spirit and zest for life made him a favorite among the younger generations of the Knowles-Beyoncé clan.
Influence of the Knowles Family Legacy
As a member of the extended Knowles-Beyoncé family, Skip was part of a legacy of creativity, entrepreneurship and dedication to community. The family’s roots in Louisiana and Texas shaped their values and work ethic.
Skip’s sister Tina Knowles famously founded the House of Deréon fashion line and has been a major influence on her daughters’ successful careers. Beyoncé has often spoken about the impact her mother and the strong women in her family have had on her life.
While Skip may not have been as well-known as some of his famous relatives, he was undoubtedly proud of their accomplishments. As an integral part of the Knowles-Beyoncé family tapestry, Skip’s life and legacy are forever intertwined with theirs.
Lumis Joseph Beyoncé Jr.’s Passing and Impact
On March 13, 2016, Skip passed away at the age of 66. His obituary lovingly stated that he had “relocated to his heavenly home” on that day.
The loss of Skip was undoubtedly felt deeply by his family, including his sister Tina and nieces Beyoncé and Solange. In the years since his passing, the Knowles-Beyoncé family has continued to honor Skip’s memory in their own private ways.
Although he may be gone, Skip’s impact lives on through the countless lives he touched. His spirit of love, laughter and family unity continues to inspire younger generations of his extended family.
Final Words
Lumis Joseph “Skip” Beyoncé Jr. may not have been a household name, but his life was one of great significance. As a beloved uncle, brother and community member, Skip left an indelible mark on those who knew him.
His story is a reminder of the unbreakable bonds of family and the enduring power of love. While Skip’s time on earth may have been cut short, his legacy will live on through the countless memories he made with his cherished sister Tina, nieces Beyoncé and Solange, and all those who were lucky enough to call him a friend.
As we celebrate the incredible achievements of the Knowles-Beyoncé family, let us also remember the quiet strength and unwavering love of Lumis Joseph “Skip” Beyoncé Jr. – a man who helped shape one of the most influential families in entertainment history.
