Lela Skipper Obituary

Lela Jane Skipper, lovingly known to all who adored her as Mama Jane, passed peacefully on January 14, 2026, at the age of 87. She was born in Florida on November 26, 1938, the cherished daughter of the late James D. Robinson and Doris Kendrick Robinson.

Lela Jane was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and friend whose beauty - inside and out - was matched only by her spirit. She married her high school sweetheart, H. Wayne "Skip" Skipper Sr., affectionately known as Big Skip to his grandchildren, and together they shared a remarkable 60-year marriage filled with love, laughter, and unwavering partnership. They made their home in the Cayce area, where they raised their children and built a life centered on family, faith, and community.

Family was Lela Jane's greatest joy. She was endlessly supportive of her husband's and children's activities and business ventures, always offering encouragement, wisdom, and love. She was a devoted mother to her sons, Skip (Tracy) and Jimmy (Mary Anne), and a proud grandmother to Peri Jayne, Lexie, Lela, Kendrick, Trey, Brian, Dale, and Jay. She was preceded in death by her beloved daughter, Krissy, whom she missed dearly and now holds once again.

Lela Jane loved life and she lived it beautifully. She treasured time spent at both the beach and the mountains, where she and Big Skip had homes and created countless memories with family and friends. She loved to read and could often be found with a book in hand, enjoying quiet moments just as much as lively ones. Whether listening to her beloved beach music, shagging across the floor, or simply enjoying the view with those she loved, she embraced every moment with joy and style.

Her passions were many. She had an exceptional eye for antiques and was the proud owner of 378 Antique Mall for 25 years, a true reflection of her taste, dedication, and entrepreneurial spirit. She was also a wonderful cook and was once featured in the newspaper as "Cook of the Month," where she proudly shared her favorite recipes. She adored her pets and showered them with the same love she gave so freely to everyone in her life.

A graduate of Brookland-Cayce High School, Lela Jane was crowned Miss Sophomore, a title that perfectly captured the grace and beauty she carried throughout her life. To those who knew her, she was simply the most beautiful woman inside and out. Spunky, sassy, elegant, and delightfully boujee, Mama Jane left a lasting impression wherever she went.

Now, we find comfort imagining her listening to beach music, dancing the shag with Big Skip, and finding peace reunited with her husband, her parents, and her daughter. Though our hearts ache in her absence, her love, laughter, and legacy will live on forever.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the compassionate staff and nurses at Wellmore Retirement Community, as well as the Hospice nurses, for their kindness, care, and unwavering support during her final days. Your love and dedication meant more than words can express.

This past Thanksgiving, we celebrated her last birthday together, a memory that will forever be treasured. We love you, Mama Jane, and we miss you already.

Graveside services will be held at Elmwood Cemetery on Wednesday, January 21, at 2:00 PM.