JOHN SKAGGS

JOHN SKAGGS 09/24/1937 - 12/15/2025 John Elbert Skaggs, 88, of Independence, Mo., passed away peacefully at his home on December 15, 2025, surrounded by family. Born September 24, 1937, to Charles Elbert Skaggs and Margaret (Fiers) Skaggs. John grew up in Howe, Ind., and graduated from Lima High School in 1955. John dedicated his life to hard work and service. He worked as a mechanic for City of Sturgis, Mich. John spent years at Herald House Publishing and later served as a Marshal at Drumm Farm Golf Course, both in Independence. His faith was central to his life - John was ordained as a priest in Community of Christ (RLDS) Church. He married Teresa May Skaggs, who preceded him in death June 28, 1993. John was also preceded in death by his brother Bill Skaggs and sister-in-law Barb. On June 3, 1995, he married Karen (Casey) Skaggs, who survives him. John leaves behind a loving family; children, Keith and Denise Skaggs (Sturgis), Kent and Cherie Skaggs (Three Rivers, Mich.), Kelli Palmer (Kalamazoo, Mich.), Kurt and Deb Skaggs (Constantine, Mich.; stepdaughters, Jody (Dave) Roller (Blue Springs, Mo.), Sandy Atkins (Independence), Kerry (Rick) Sudtelgte (Remsen, Iowa), Charlene "Bear" Atkins (Warrensburg, Mo.); sister-in-law Karen (Danny) Stroup (Bronson, Mich.) He was blessed with 20 grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews. John was an avid reader and golfer, loved woodworking, and had a deep passion for history and movies. His legacy of kindness, humor, and devotion to family and faith will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. Private family service will be held at a later date.