Laurie Jo (Taylor) Skipper

Laurie Jo (Taylor) Skipper, 66, passed away on April 27, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family and the comfort of her faith. Her life was a testament to kindness, devotion, and the quiet, steady strength that touched everyone who knew her. Born on April 14, 1960, in Rensselaer, Indiana, Laurie was the beloved daughter of Raymond and Arlene (Hancock) Taylor. She grew up deeply rooted in her community and her faith, graduating from Rensselaer High School with the Class of 1978. In 1993, Laurie married the love of her life, Mark Skipper, and together they built a home filled with laughter, loyalty, and unwavering commitment. Family was the center of Laurie’s world, and she poured her heart into every role she held—wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, and friend. Laurie was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, her sisters Linda Taylor and Michelle Effinger, and her nephew Michael Effinger. She is survived by her daughter Amy (Bill) Luttrell. Laurie was a proud grandmother to Desmond (Holli) Souders, Dalton Souders, Ayden Randolph, Adyson Luttrell, Destiny (Gabby) Rodriguez, and Stormy (Nick) Bonakowski. Her love extended to her great grandchildren: Brooklyn, Aliyah, Quinton, Norah, Leilani, Jakobie, Canelo, Rainie, and River, each of whom brought her immeasurable joy. She is also survived by her brother-in-law Joe Effinger and best friend, Staci Miller, whose friendship was a constant source of comfort, laughter, and shared memories throughout the years. Laurie was employed for many years at Schumacher Electric, where she was known for her reliability and strong work ethic. She later served the community through her work in the Rensselaer school system in the lunchroom, where her warm smile and caring nature brightened the days of countless students. Laurie had so much love to give that she opened her home to run Country Charm Daycare, providing a safe, nurturing place for children and becoming a cherished part of many families’ lives. A woman of deep faith, Laurie was a devoted member of the Rensselaer Church of the Nazarene, where she found purpose, community, and joy in serving others. She was also a lifetime member of the Rensselaer Moose Lodge #2272, reflecting her longstanding commitment to her hometown and the people in it. Laurie cherished spending time with her family, especially during holidays and gatherings that filled her home with warmth. She had a special love for Hallmark movies and Christmas, finding joy in the simple, heartfelt moments that made the season magical. Laurie’s life was defined not by grand gestures, but by the steady, loving presence she offered to everyone around her. Her kindness, her gentle spirit, and her unwavering devotion to her family and faith will be remembered always. Friends may call on the family at Jackson Funeral Chapel of Rensselaer on Friday, May 1, 2026, from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM CT. A funeral service will follow at 11:00 AM CT. Interment at Memory Gardens, Rensselaer. Memorial contributions may be made to the family.

Laurie Jo (Taylor) Skipper

April 4, 1960 - April 27, 2026