Oreal Odis Skidmore, 99, Westphalia, passed away Wednesday, Feb. 10, 2021, at Westphalia Hills Stone Bridge Senior Living in Westphalia.
He was born Aug. 9, 1921, to the late Owen Odis and Lena (Affentranger) Skidmore in Okarche, Okla.
He was united in marriage to Minnie Olevia Sherwood April 15, 1941. She preceded him in death June 17, 1996. He was then united in marriage to Mary Jo Helmig Ridenhour May 27, 2000, in Linn.
Oreal began working by milking cows, mining in Colorado, farming, logging, and eventually started and operated Skidmore Lumber Company. He retired in 1994 when he sold the business to his sons.
Oreal was a member of Solid Rock Baptist Church in Judge. He enjoyed spending time with his family, having a strong work ethic, and most of all, his devotion to his church and God.
He was preceded in death by parents, Owen and Lena; first wife, Minnie Skidmore; sons, Jerry Skidmore and Kenneth Skidmore; brothers, Frank, Freddy, and Walter Skidmore; and sisters, Leona Poole, Roma Overland and Billie Jean Barrick.
Oreal is survived by wife, Mary Jo Skidmore of Freeburg; sons, Odis Skidmore and wife Penn of Moberly, Howard Skidmore and wife Debbie and Douglas Skidmore and wife Brenda, all of Freeburg; daughters, Mary Graham and husband Lloyd of Rolla, Jackie Bullock of Borger, Texa,Betty Bodine and husband Don of Moberly; brother, Johnny Skidmore and wife Mary of, Cortez, Colo.; sisters, Margie Spruell of Pampa, Texas and Dora Winter and husband Leroy of Farmington, N.M.; 30 grandchildren; 55 great-grandchildren; and four great-great-grandchildren.
Visitation will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday, Feb. 19, 2021, followed immediately by the funeral service at Dulle-Trimble Funeral Home in Westphalia with Pastor Perry Wolfe officiating. Interment will be in Liberty Cemetery in Belle.
The general public is welcome to attend the services while following social distancing guidelines. Facial coverings are suggested while in attendance.
Memorial contributions are suggested to the Solid Rock Baptist Church.
Arrangements entrusted to Dulle-Trimble Funeral Home in Westphalia.
Those wishing to send condolences to the family may do so at the www.dulletrimble.com website.
