Jerry Lee Skaggs

Jerry Lee Skaggs, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, son, brother, mentor, and friend, passed away peacefully on May 26, 2026, in Shawnee, OK, surrounded by the love he spent his entire life giving so freely to others. He was born on June 9, 1951, in Oklahoma City, OK and spent nearly 50 years building a beautiful life and legacy in Arizona before returning home to Oklahoma to enjoy retirement with the family he treasured more than anything in this world. Jerry was the kind of man whose presence made people feel safe. To many he was “Papa Jerry,” but to those who truly knew him, he was so much more — a protector, a provider, a steady hand, a listening ear, and the living definition of unconditional love. He never met a stranger. Wherever he went, people were drawn to his warmth, his humor, and the unmistakable kindness in his spirit. He is survived by his loving mother, Ruby Skaggs; his devoted wife of 57 years, Sheila Skaggs, the love of his life and the woman he adored from the very beginning; his son, Jerry Lee Skaggs Jr. and wife Patty; his daughter, Renea Lynn Arredondo and husband Alex; his cherished grandchildren, Christina Skaggs and Ricardo Harris, Alexis Howell and husband Chad Howell, Nicholas Skaggs, Julian Arredondo, and Isabella McCoy and husband Dakota McCoy; eight adored great-grandchildren; his sister, Theresa Skaggs-Buelt and husband Lloyd; his brother, Sam Womble; along with countless extended family members, church family, friends, and every person fortunate enough to experience his love. He was preceded in death by his father, Melvin Skaggs, mother in law Addie Carrie Norris, brother in law Kenny Hendershot & 2 great grandchildren who never made it earth-side. Papa Jerry dedicated many years of his life working as a mechanic for the City of El Mirage, Arizona, where his work ethic and reliability earned the respect of everyone around him. But his true life’s work was never found in a job title — it was found in the people he loved and served every single day. A devoted Christian and faithful member of Faith Community Church of God, Jerry served his church in countless ways with humility and compassion. His faith guided every part of his life. He believed in helping others, standing up for what was right, and showing love even when no one was watching. For nearly 20 years, Papa faithfully served as a school board president, where he fought tirelessly for equality, fairness, and justice within the school system. In 2023, the “Jerry Skaggs Award” was created in his honor — a lasting tribute to the kind of man he was. The award is presented to one parent volunteer who exemplifies what it means to be Jerry Skaggs: a leader, a protector, a sacrifice-maker, and someone who shows deep compassion toward others. Few people leave behind a legacy so meaningful that their very name becomes a standard for goodness. My Papa Jerry did. Outside of his service to others, Papa found joy in life’s simple moments. He loved hunting and car racing in his younger years. He collected coins and lighters, cherished old 1950s music, and could watch “Old Yeller” and “Savage Sam” time and time again. Some of the most treasured memories of him were made sitting on his gazebo surrounded by family and friends, smiling quietly while taking in the people he loved most. Nothing brought him greater pride than his family. Whether it was sports games, school events, random “rise and shines,” or everyday moments others may have overlooked, Papa Jerry was there — camera phone held high, cheering louder than anyone else in the crowd. He celebrated every accomplishment, every milestone, and every small moment because to him, family was never ordinary. Family was everything. As a boy, all Papa ever wanted was the love of a family of his own. And after finding my Grandma Sheila — his forever love, his “damsel” he proudly spent his life protecting her like a knight in shining armor — he built exactly that. Together they created a family rooted in love, loyalty, faith, and strength. Papa Jerry poured every ounce of himself into the people he loved. He gave more than anyone could ever repay, and he never once asked for anything in return except togetherness. The world feels colder & quieter without his laughter, his wisdom, his stories, and his unwavering presence. But the love he gave so freely lives on in every child, grandchild, great-grandchild, friend, and stranger whose life he touched. Papa Jerry was deeply loved, endlessly admired, and is already missed beyond words- though our hearts are broken, we find peace knowing Heaven gained the most incredible man.

We love you Papa.

A memorial service will be held Sunday, May 31, 2026, 2:00 PM at Faith Community Church of God, located at 43005 E MacArthur St, Shawnee, OK 74804.