Norma Jean (Ray) Skelton

Norma Jean (Ray) Skelton, 67, of Boonville, MO, passed away on March 8, 2025, at Capital Region Hospital in Jefferson City, surrounded by the love of her family.

Born in Sikeston, MO, on October 16, 1957, to Lawrence and Virginia Jones Ray, Norma carried a spark of determination and a deep love for her family from the very start. On October 10, 1987, she married the love of her life, Mark Lindsay Skelton, Sr., and together they built a life full of love, laughter, and adventure until his passing on July 3, 1996. She earned her master’s degree in criminal justice from Central Missouri State University and dedicated her career to serving others at the Missouri Department of Social Services.

Norma’s presence was unforgettable—her energy lit up every room, her laughter was infectious, and her famous whistling will be remembered by all who knew her. With a fiercely competitive spirit, a strong will, and a heart full of love, she embraced every moment of life. Whether cheering on her grandchildren from the sidelines, strolling along the Katy Trail, capturing moments through photography, or enjoying music, Norma truly lived with passion. Her beloved dogs, Remi Rose and Jersey Rose, were always by her side, offering comfort and joy. She often summed up her journey with the simple words, “It’s been an interesting life.”

A devoted mother who led with love, strength, and wisdom, Norma leaves behind a legacy in her children: Mark Lindsay Skelton, Jr. (Elizabeth Norma-Jean Dahm Skelton) of Jefferson City; Sarah Paige Skelton Russell (Tyler Allen Russell) of Oak Grove, MO; and John Robert Skelton of Boonville. She also leaves behind her treasured grandchildren, “Wyatt Earp” Allen Russell and Ava Rose Russell of Oak Grove, who brought immense joy into her life. Norma is survived by her brothers—James Everett Ray, Billy Ray, and Ricky Ray—and her sisters, Glenda Rhorer, Donna Smith, and Margaret Brandes. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, her brother Robert Ray, and her sister Mary Lee Marcum.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, March 15, 2025, from 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM at Mt. Hermon Baptist Church (13394 B Hwy, Boonville, MO). Please note that limited parking is available and guests are kindly asked to carpool if possible. Following visitation, a service honoring Norma’s life will be held on Saturday, March 15, 2025, at 12:30 PM at the same location. After the service, Norma will be laid to rest next to her beloved husband at Rolla City Cemetery on Sunday afternoon at 2:30 PM.

In honor of Norma’s generous spirit, memorial contributions may be made to Mt. Hermon Baptist Church.

The Markland-Yager Funeral Home is honored to serve Norma’s family.

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