Funeral services for Gail Ann Skipper, age 79 of Ruston, LA will be held at 10:00 AM, Saturday, October17, 2026 at Owens Memorial Chapel with Brother Kendall Corkern officiating. Burial will follow in Forest Lawn Cemetery under the direction of Owens Memorial Chapel Funeral Home in Ruston.
Gail Ann Skipper, affectionately know as Mama or Mamaw, will be remembered as a woman of extraordinary quiet strength, a gentle spirit, a humble heart and a love for her family that will never be forgotten. Gail was truly one of a kind. She was one of the kindest, gentlest, and most humble people you would ever meet, yet beneath her quiet nature was a strength that was nothing short of remarkable. Gail faced life’s hardships with a perseverance that spoke louder than words, overcoming cancer and enduring numerous health challenges over many years. Though life brought her many difficult seasons, she continued forward with a quiet determination that demonstrated the incredible strength of her spirit.
Gail was married to the love her of life, Chester Skipper, on November 4, 1967. Being married to Chester was no easy task, but through the saving grace of Jesus Christ, she and Chester came to know the Lord. Their journey is a reminder that God’s grace can reach into even the most difficult circumstances and bring hope, healing, and redemption.
Anyone who knew Gail knew how much she loved cooking for her family. And although she was quiet and gentle by nature, she certainly had a feisty side when it came to preparing those special family gatherings! When she was busy in the kitchen making sure everything was just right, you had better be careful not to get in her way. She took pride in feeding the people she loved, and her family will always remember the love, care, and determination she brought to every gathering. Gail had a gift of bringing people together around the table, preparing her delicious gumbo, shrimp stew, chicken stew and the very best turkey and dressing. She lovingly taught her family her recipes, passing down traditions that will continue for generations. These recipes are more than instructions for preparing a meal; they were a piece of Gail herself, shared through the love she poured into every dish.
Gail also loved to shop. Goodness could she shop! The little things, along with her gentle nature and occasional feistiness, were part of the personality that made her so special and unforgettable. Above all, Gail dearly loved her children and grandchildren. Her family was precious to her, and the love she gave them will remain a lasting legacy. She taught through her actions, her perseverance, her humility, and the quiet way she cared for those around her. She may not have been someone who sought attention, but her presence made a difference, and her love left an imprint on the hearts of those fortunate enough to know her.
There are some people whose strength is measured not by how loudly they speak, but by how much they endure, how deeply they love, and how faithfully they keep going. That was Gail! She was gentle but strong, humble yet extraordinary, and beautiful in ways that matter most. She was truly one of a kind! Gail is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Chester Skipper; beloved parents, Martha and Morris Mabile; brothers, Pasquale and Bert Mabile; and cherished grandson, Matthew Skipper.
Gail is survived by her children: Michael Skipper and wife Hailey, Chester “Noon” Skipper, and Connie Skipper Wells; grandchildren: Amber & husband Ricky Reid, Seth Wells and girlfriend Courtney Balcom, Mike Skipper and wife Savannah, Mason Skipper, Braxton Wadsworth and Eli Wells; great grandchildren: Brantley Reid, Bentlee Reid, Trace Skipper, Toby Skipper, Maverick Skipper and Case Moak. She is also survived by her daughter in law, Renee Skipper and a host of other family and friends.
Though her hands will no longer prepare the meals her family treasures, her recipes will continue to bring generations together. Though her voice will no longer be heard, her stories and memories will be spoken with love. And though her family must learn to live without her physical presence, the lessons she taught, the traditions she passed down, and the love she gave will never leave them.
Gail Ann Skipper was a rare and beautiful soul—a gentle woman with the strength of a warrior and the heart of a servant. She was deeply loved, and she will be missed more than words can express. Her life was a gift to her family, and her legacy will live on in every life she touched.
Serving as pallbearers will be: Ricky Reid, Ray Barrett, grandsons Seth Wells, Michael L. Skipper, Jr., Mason Skipper and great grandson Braxton Wodsworth. Visitation will be from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM, Saturday, October 17, 2026, at Owens Memorial Chapel in Ruston, LA.
