Larinda Joy (Archer) Skaggs Obit

[an error occurred while processing this directive]

Larinda Joy (Archer) Skaggs
Jun 7, 1947 - Jul 22, 2026
Posted by Jo Aguirre

Larinda Joy Skaggs was born on June 7, 1947, in Sayre, Oklahoma, to Emory Lawrence “E.L.” Archer and Addie Belle Archer. The oldest of six children and the only daughter among five brothers - Emory, Rod, Dwight, Bruce and Keith - she was raised in the Nazarene Church in Sayre and never forgot her pioneering roots.

While still in high school, Larinda met the love of her life, James Bob Skaggs, her school bus driver. James served four years in the United States Marine Corps, including one year in Vietnam. A few months after his return, they were married on March 2, 1968. Together they raised four sons: Greg, Loren Todd, Jon, and Ryan.

Larinda began her higher education at the University of Northern Colorado in Greeley and later completed her bachelor’s degree in education at Southwestern Oklahoma State University. After James passed away in 1990 in Sayre, when she was 43, she returned to school and finished her degree. She then taught for eight years at Christian Heritage Academy.

At the age of 55, she began nursing school at Rose State College, finishing at the top of her class. She was a true inspiration and a living example of lifelong learning. She went on to serve as an elementary school nurse for the Oklahoma City Public Schools until her retirement in 2015.

Throughout her life, Larinda was an inspiration to many. She never quit or gave up, trusting in the love and grace of God to guide her through difficult times. She endured the heartbreaking loss of her son Loren Todd in 2012 and her mother, and best friend, in 2013, sustained by her unwavering faith in Jesus Christ.

In retirement, she enjoyed gardening, thrifting, reading, and collecting dishes, gravy boats, and teapots. She loved spending time with her friends and family, cooking, never forgot a birthday, and often sent cards to those she loved. kind, talkative, and fun to travel with, this 5'2" giant was known for her love of Jesus and her deep devotion to her family.

Larinda was preceded in death by her husband, James Bob Skaggs; her son, Todd Skaggs; and her parents, E.L. and Addie Archer.

She is survived by her sons Greg, Jon, and Ryan; her grandchildren Kalyn and Abbie; her great-grandchildren Henry and Lincoln; and her brothers Emory, Rod, Dwight, Bruce and Keith.

Graveside
Saturday, August 1, 2026 10:00AM - 11:00AM
Lone Oak Cemetery
35.320963, -99.737725
Sayre, OK 73662

[an error occurred while processing this directive]