Jeannine Williams Skousen
1938 — 2026
A Life Remembered
Obituary
Our beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend passed away on November 9, 2026, at the age of 88. She leaves behind a large and loving family, including her devoted husband, Lavar, six of her seven children: Jerilyn (Cory), Kevin (Kim), Curt (Jeannine), Darrin (Sandi), Scott (Christy), and Stephanie (John), along with 42 grandchildren, and 26 great-grandchildren. Her life was filled with faith, family, service, laughter, and a genuine love for people.
She was born on September 13, 1938, in Mesa, Arizona, to Ned and Arthella Williams. The oldest of eleven children, she grew up in Mesa, where she developed many of the talents, interests, and qualities that would become such a special part of her life. She was friendly, outgoing, and loved people. She had a gift for talking with anyone and could visit for hours. She was well-liked and popular in high school, where she participated in many activities, including baton twirling. She graduated from Mesa High School.
On December 19, 1955, she married the love of her life, Lavar Skousen, in the Mesa Arizona Temple. They were an amazing couple who did just about everything together. She loved spoiling Lavar, learning to make his favorite meals from childhood and preparing his favorite treats. Their love and companionship were a beautiful example of marriage and devotion. Together they raised seven children and built a family that would continue to grow through generations.
Her family was her greatest joy, and she took a genuine interest in the lives of her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She loved attending their sporting events, activities, and special occasions. She wanted to be there, cheer them on, and be part of their lives. She was one of their biggest supporters. Her home was always a welcoming place, and there was almost always a treat waiting for the kids. She loved sweets and had a sweet tooth like no other. Ice cream was a staple in her freezer, sometimes homemade, and dessert was almost always part of the evening meal. She made the best pies, which became a favorite among family and friends.
She was a woman of many talents and was always willing to share them with others. Along with her amazing cooking, she was a talented seamstress who made dresses and clothing for her children and for others whenever there was a need. She found joy in creating things and using her talents to bless those around her.
Her faith in Jesus Christ was the foundation of her life. A lifelong and faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, she served in many Church callings throughout the years. Alongside Lavar, she also had the opportunity to serve four missions: Caracas, Venezuela; Monterrey, Mexico; the Dominican Republic; and the Church History Center in Salt Lake City, Utah. Although learning Spanish did not come easily to her, she never let that stop her from trying. She would write her talks in English, Lavar would translate them into Spanish, and she would do her very best to deliver them in Spanish. Her accent may not have been perfect, and sometimes she was a little hard to understand, but her effort, love, and spirit spoke louder than words. You could feel her testimony and the love of the Savior through her.
She was a beautiful example of what it means to be a true disciple of Jesus Christ. Her love for the Savior was evident in the way she lived, the way she served, and especially in the way she loved others. Those who came in contact with her were drawn to her warmth and kindness. You could see the light of Christ in her, and she had a way of making people feel loved and welcomed.
She will also be remembered for her friendly personality. She had a way of making everyone feel like an old friend. When she saw you, you could often count on hearing her cheerful greeting, "Hello dere!" And when it was time to say goodnight, she would send you off with her familiar, "See you in the mañana." These little expressions, along with her fun sense of humor and love of conversation, will be treasured memories for her family.
She was preceded in death by her parents, several of her siblings, her oldest son, Richard Skousen, and her grandson Shane Figueroa.
Her family will forever be grateful for the example she set, the memories she created, the traditions she passed down, and the love she so freely gave. Her influence reaches far beyond her own lifetime, living on through the many generations of family she loved so dearly. Although our hearts are broken by her passing, we find comfort in the knowledge of our Savior, Jesus Christ, and the promise of eternal families. We look forward to the day when we will be together again.
Flowers may be sent to: Bunker Family Funerals 33 N. Centennial Way Mesa, AZ 85201
Arrangements by Bunker’s Garden Chapel, www.bunkerfuneral.com. Should this obituary appear anywhere but bunkerfuneral.com, please check our website for accurate details and service information.
Service Details
Gatherings in remembrance
Visitation
Wednesday, November 18, 2026 · 12:00 PM
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
37280 West Bowlin Road, Maricopa, AZ, 85138
Funeral Service
Wednesday, November 18, 2026 · 1:00 PM
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
37280 West Bowlin Road, Maricopa, AZ, 85138
Provided by
Bunker Family Funerals & Cremation