June A Skaggs - Beloved Wife, Mother, and Friend

My Mother - Written by Holly Skaggs (daughter)

If there is a word to describe my mother, June Northcutt Skaggs, it is devotion.  Devotion is a deep dedication, loyalty, or affection toward a person, cause, or religious faith, often demonstrated through consistent action, time, and resources.  My mother consistently displayed this quality in her love of family, her faith and her career.  

Mom, or as I would call her, Moose, was consistent in her expectations for her children.  She made sure we knew our chores and completed them thoroughly.  She was patient, until she had to be otherwise, and always was willing to show me how to cook or bake.   She was also determined that we would complete our studies and not slack on activities we pursued.  Her devotion to her ideals about how girls needed to dress and present themselves were big sources of conflict between us, but the lessons were learned – whether I wanted to or not.  She could care less about sports but was an avid fan when her children were playing.  

My mother loved to work, to be busy accomplishing things.  She was devoted to keeping a clean and tidy house, making sure that her family had dinner each evening and helping out however she could to family, friends and in the community.  She was determined not to let physical ailments or past history dictate her abilities and success.  She was diagnosed at the age of 20 with osteo and rheumatoid arthritis but never let those stiff or crooked joints limit her completion of expected duties or activities that she loved, like sewing, crafting and in her later years, quilting.  

My mother was devoted to her faith.  I found the bulletin from Ansted Baptist Church in her keepsakes that indicated when she and her mother and step-father had been baptized.  She was eager to sing in the choir and started out singing at Ansted Baptist in her childhood and continued throughout each church she attended.  She also was devoted to the children in those churches and often partnered with others to put together children’s programs/musicals so that others could experience the joy in those experiences.  Mom also sang in a few different Trios at different churches and cherished those friendships.  She was always willing to serve the Lord and share her faith with others.  

I remember when she decided she was going to return to college to complete her undergraduate degree in Education at Glenville State University.  She never seemed to be too stressed or overwhelmed for anything and I was so proud of her when she graduated in 1984, Cum Laude.  I was just 9 but was in awe of her determination.  She was a dedicated teacher and loved being in that role.  I believe her favorite role was being a Title I teacher where she diligently worked to help kids who were struggling to grasp concepts and be able to succeed.  She never sought out accolades but was loved by her students and peers.  

My mother’s truest display of devotion was in her love and care for her mother, Gala.  In the mid 1980’s there wasn’t a lot of knowledge or information regarding Alzheimer’s Disease.  Gala was diagnosed with early onset Alzheimers in the mid 1980’s and her family worked hard to be able to ensure her safety and stability throughout a confusing time.  My mother would consistently include Mommaw in our lives as much as she could.   When she herself was given a similar diagnosis in 2011, I imagine she struggled with this reality.  But she continued to try.   She continued to fight to maintain as much of herself as she could.  II Timothy 4:7 says “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the course, I have kept the faith…”  My mother finished her course and is now at peace.    

After losing my loved one to Alzheimer's, I knew I couldn't just stand by. I wanted to honor their memory in a way that would make a difference. That's why I joined the fight to end this devastating disease by creating this tribute page in their name.

By taking this step, I'm raising funds to support the critical work of the Alzheimer's Association: providing care and support for families, advancing promising research and offering a lifeline through their free 24/7 Helpline (800.272.3900). Every dollar raised helps ensure that no one faces Alzheimer's alone.

I'd be so grateful if you would make a memorial gift in their name. It would mean a lot to me and those facing this relentless disease. 

A future without Alzheimer's is out there. Let's get there, together. 

Thank you in advance for your kindness and generosity.