Norma L. Skaggs

Norma L. Skaggs, a loving, kind, and faith-filled woman, passed away on May 25, 2023, in Oblong, IL, at the age of 87. Born on March 2, 1936, in rural Flat Rock, IL, Norma grew up on a farm in the Lost Slab area, where she developed a strong work ethic that would last her entire life.

Despite growing up with little and wearing dresses made from burlap bags, Norma never let difficult circumstances hold her back. Instead, she married Melvin Leo Skaggs, and together, they owned the Phillips 66 gas station in Robinson for several years and also sold tires, watermelon, and cantaloupe until Leo's untimely passing. Norma's unyielding spirit picked her back up and led her down a career path that included positions at the Pottery, Crawford Electronics, and the Index. The end of her productive years found her dedicating her time as a caretaker for older individuals, providing them with much-needed compassion and dignity in the twilight years of their lives.

Norma proved time and again that she was a devoted member of her community. She served as a Past Worthy Matron of the Flat Rock Order of the Eastern Star, was an American Legion Ladies Auxiliary member, and worshiped her Lord at the New Hope Baptist Church. Her church family will never forget how she sang an octave above the rest of the congregation, nor the mouthwatering meals she brought for carry-in dinners. Sundays weren't just for worship, but for family as well. After all, they spent countless Sunday afternoons around her dinner table, enjoying her famous homemade chicken and dumplings and unparalleled red velvet cake. Norma's creativity and adventurous spirit inspired her to try new recipes all the time. She even swerved to hit a rabbit once, turning it into a dinner lesson on resourcefulness!

Her love for nature was evident in her beautiful landscaping, from tulips and Easter lilies to snowball bushes and clematis. The sight of butterflies brought her immense happiness. But there was nothing on earth that brought her more joy than her loved ones. A doting grandmother, Norma was always there for her grandchildren, teaching them essential life skills like driving and skinning a deer. She wanted to be a continuous presence in all the important moments of their lives, which is why she made sure to spend the night at their house every Christmas Eve, so she could be there when they awoke on Christmas morning. Her devotion, guidance, and unwavering support made her the kind of grandmother everyone hopes to have.

Norma had a heart of gold and shared her love without judgment. Her laughter was contagious, and her cackle could brighten even the darkest days. She was genuinely interesting, leaving behind memories and stories that will live on in the hearts of her family and friends for generations to come.

She is survived by her grandchildren & their spouses, Lance Skaggs & Caitlin Hawkins (Palestine, IL), Daron & Alissa Skaggs (Robinson, IL), Elizabeth Skaggs & Andy Harris (Palestine, IL), Caleb Wesley (Palestine, IL), and Michaela Wesley (Terre Haute, IN); by her great-grandchildren, Charli Skaggs, Averi Skaggs, Shailey Skaggs, Skylar Skaggs, Oliver Nidey, Willow Skaggs, Remington Harris, Karson Harris, and Jaxon Wesley; as well as her daughter-in-law, Pamela Skaggs-Collins.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Alvin & Lizzie Daron; her husband, Melvin "Leo" Skaggs; her son, Melvin L. Skaggs; and her grandson, Melvin Leo Skaggs (in infancy); her brother, Paul Martin; as well as nine infant siblings.

A time of visitation will be held from 2:00-4:00 p.m. on Wednesday, May 31st, at the Goodwine Funeral Home in Robinson. Funeral services will immediately follow and be held at 4:00 p.m. on Wednesday at the funeral home, with Pastor Jeff Monroney officiating. For those unable to attend, a recording of the service will eventually be available at www.goodwinefuneralhomes.com/live-stream/live-stream .

Burial will be in the Robinson New Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the "Baptist Children's Home & Family Services", a source of hope and healing, providing Christ-centered services to children and families in crisis. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.