Jean Shelby Skelton, age 87, of Cottondale, AL died November 3, 2025 at Hospice of West Alabama in Tuscaloosa.  Graveside services will be 2:00 pm Friday, November 7, 2025 at Memory Chapel Cemetery in Tuscaloosa with Bro. Sammy Hughes officiating and Skelton Funeral Home of Reform directing. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service at the graveside.
She was preceded in death by her husband, James E. Skelton and her parents.
Survivors include her daughter, Megan Pruitt (Dwayne); her sons, Gary Kernop (Diana), Carl Kernop (Marcia), Kenny Kernop (Lucille) and Brooks Skelton (Emily); sister, Kathy Thomas (Jerry); brothers, Bud Spencer (Lochie) and Steve Spencer (Debbie); six grandchildren, Keele Kernop, Annika Kernop, Lynn Kernop, Noah Pruitt, Ben Pruitt and Rosie Skelton and four great-grandchildren, Paxton Walbach, Lawson Brown, Connor Kernop and Olive Booth.
Jean was born September 7, 1938 in Gordo, Alabama to the late Howard Spencer and Delora Elmore Spencer.  She was a retired nurse and a member of New Life Outreach.
"Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me."  Matthew 25:40.
Matthew 25:40 reminds us that in caring for the vulnerable and those in need, we are serving Christ Himself.  Jean's gift of care taking reflected this calling.  As a nurse for over 40 years, she dedicated her life to tending others with skill and commitment.  She had a soft heart for children, animals and those who couldn't help themselves, stepping in where others might not. Though she was strong-willed and spoke her mind, her fierce protectiveness over those she cared about showed her deep commitment.  She worked hard and passed on the value of that dedication to her children.  Her life stands as a testament to the scripture's message that acts of care and service to the "least of these" hold great meaning and honor.  Now, she rests with the Lord, embraced by His own care and love for His children, leaving behind a lasting legacy of strength and compassion.
Pallbearers will be Forest Thomas, Lynn Kernop, Dwayne Pruitt, Brandon Hayden, Jaeden Yeager and Zeke Yeager.
Honorary Pallbearers are Hospice of West Alabama, DCH MICU and Lynn O'Bryant.
In lieu of flowers the family suggests memorials to Hospice of West Alabama, 3851 Loop Road, Tuscaloosa, AL 35404.