Paula Skelton

CHARLESTON, Mo. — Paula Brown Skelton, 78, of Charleston went to heaven Saturday, Aug. 6, 2022, from her home, with her family by her side. This devoted Christ follower, loving wife, mother and grandmother is now healed after struggling with a prolonged illness.

Paula was born Jan. 5, 1944, to Mary and Paul Brown in Wyatt, Missouri.

After graduating from Charleston High School in 1962, she attended the National School of Aeronautics in Kansas City, Missouri, where she graduated first in her class. Her first job was with Bell Telephone as an operator in St. Louis, and she later transferred to Sikeston, Missouri. Paula then worked as a secretary for Righter Trucking. After moving to Scott City, she was employed with Security Bank as a teller and loan department secretary, where she served for 14 years until retirement.

In the 11th grade, she met a fellow CHS student named Bill Skelton. After graduation, she would later reconnect with Bill, and they wed in 1965, going on to have four children. Paula's life was dedicated to her husband, children and grandchildren. Paula was lovingly referred to as Grammy by her grandchildren. She was known for her loving, kind and gentle demeanor. She did not have to speak loudly; instead, she said volumes with her actions demonstrating how to live a life that glorifies God.

Bill and Paula lived in Scott City for 47 years while raising their family. But her heart always longed to return to her childhood hometown of Charleston. Finally, in 2019, her dream came true. They spent the last three years greeting each new day in Charleston from their beloved front porch wicker swing.

Her body faced many painful changes and challenges during the past several months. However, her faith in God sustained her every step of her journey. Paula refused to give up her hope, quiet determination, and trust in God, who gave her the strength to face each day. She would brave each medical procedure knowing that the pain she was facing paled in comparison to what her Lord and Savior had to endure to provide salvation and forgiveness to His children. Her legacy of faith, love and devotion to God and her family will never be forgotten. Her life was a gift to her family, and we will miss her greatly.

Paula was preceded in death by her parents, Mary and Paul Brown; her firstborn son, John Paul; and her sister, Brenda Marberry.

She is survived by her husband of 57 years, Bill. She also leaves behind her daughter, Sherri (David), and their child, Abigail Grace, all of Nashville, Tennessee; her son Mike (Kara), and their sons, Grant and Will, all of Cape Girardeau; and her son Jeff (Hanan), and their son, Matthew, of Atlanta; and her sister, Dolly Martin of Charleston.

The family will have a private service to say their final goodbye. Instead of flowers, please consider donating to Granting Grace. After being inspired by Bill and Paula's Christmas blessing tradition, one of Paula's grandsons began this ministry to help those in need. Those who desire to donate can send gifts to Granting Grace Outreach at 1572 Howell St., Cape Girardeau, MO 63701.

Online condolences may be shared at www.mcmiklefuneralhome.com.