Acclaimed underwater adventurer dies at age 52

By Carrie A. Mizell

The world knew Wes Skiles as a talented underwater photographer, who bravely explored and documented cave systems all over the world for publications such as National Geographic.
Skiles’ family and friends remember the 52-year-old, who died Wednesday, July 21, while diving off the coast of Palm Beach County, as bigger than life.

The High Springs resident had reportedly been filming for National Geographic off the coast of the Boynton Beach Inlet when he passed away. Though the incident was still under investigation at press time, the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office reported that Skiles’ body was found motionless at the bottom of a reef around 3 p.m.
Skiles reportedly told his two fellow divers that he needed to ascend because he was out of film. It wasn’t until the others ascended sometime later that they noticed Skiles’ body. Though CPR was performed, Skiles was later pronounced dead at a nearby hospital.
After learning of the incident, the National Geographic Society issued a statement on Thursday, “Our thoughts are with Wes’ family.”
The August issue of National Geographic features a cover photograph Skiles took while doing a story on Bahamas Blue Holes.
National Geographic editor-in-chief Chris Jones said, “Wes was a true explorer in every sense and a wonderful spirit. He set a standard for underwater photography, cinematography and exploration that is unsurpassed. It was an honor to work with him, and he will be deeply missed.”
On Monday, family members and friends of the famed underwater explorer were still in shock over his sudden death. A memorial service and celebration of Wes’ life was planned for Wednesday, July 28 at 6 p.m. at Ginnie Springs.