Virginia Nelson Skaggs

Virginia Nelson Skaggs, a no-nonsense woman with a wicked sense of humor, passed away on May 31, 2026. Born to Henry Paul and Altha Nelson in Edmond, Oklahoma, Virginia was raised in Oklahoma and Kansas and graduated from Junction City High School.

While working as a switchboard operator at Fort Sill, Oklahoma, she met Jerry Skaggs on a blind double date. Although her roommate had hoped to date Jerry, he placed Virginia in the front seat, making her his date. They became engaged three months later, and after Jerry returned from serving overseas, they married at South Lindsey Baptist Church in Oklahoma City on May 23, 1959. Virginia was spoiled rotten by Jerry every day thereafter.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Jerry; her son-in-law, Randy, whom she loved as if he were her own son; her parents; and two brothers, Glenn and Bobby.

Virginia leaves behind her two daughters, Susan Eden (and Trace) and Sharon McCuistian (and Trent); four grandchildren, Jacob Bodkin (and Rupal), Jordan Bodkin, Connor Ellis (and Lacey), and Molly Ellis (and Casey); and two great-granddaughters, Lilah Bodkin and Wren Ellis. She is also survived by her brother, Wayne, and several nieces and nephews.

A dynamic duo in both life and business, Virginia and Jerry owned several successful businesses in Hereford, Texas, and in their retirement, ran an antique store in Gorman, Texas, just to stay busy and enjoy their shared love of antiques. Virginia still owned a business in Hereford at the time of her passing.

Virginia devoted her life to her family and her faith. She instilled a deep Christian faith in her daughters and grandchildren, reminding them to trust in God through life’s challenges. One cherished memory from her daughters’ childhood was Easter weekends at the ranch, where she would teach the Easter story during a family outdoor church service.

Her quick wit and firm belief that everyone should stay informed and be able to defend their opinions made family dinner conversations lively and memorable.

Virginia’s philosophy of life can be summed up in one sentence: “Don’t lose your looks over this!”

Known by many names—Sweetheart, Mom, and Nene—Virginia aspired most to being called a Good and Faithful Servant. In her own writings, she expressed the wish that her life be remembered with the words: “I Know My Redeemer Lives.”

She will be deeply missed by her family, and fondly remembered for the whirlwind of fun and love that surrounded her life.

A private memorial service will be held at a later date.