Mary Louise Skidmore was born April 24, 1924 to William Raymond Foley and Sarah Ella Buckner Foley. She is preceded in death by her parents and her siblings, Gladys Mae Cotter, Ruth Jean Eberly, Raymond Lee Foley, Billie Jo McMillan and Barbara Roberta Skidmore, as well as her beloved husband of over 50 years, Jack Allen Skidmore.

Louise attended the Liberty School at Fellows Lake from 1930-1942. She and Jack were married on September 21, 1942 at Liberty Baptist Church where she was a member.

Louise was an owner/operator at Merle Norman Cosmetics in Downtown Springfield next to Hocklander’s Jewelry where Jack worked doing clock, watch and jewelry repair. She was regularly recognized for her performance and achievements in the Merle Norman company and her contributions to the Downtown Springfield Community.

Louise was a lifelong nature-lover who enjoyed bird watching and knew the name of every tree and wildflower –  always to the amazement of her nieces and nephews. An avid reader, Louise read thousands of books in her lifetime. She was a seasoned traveler who made friends wherever she went.

Louise is survived by her brother Bob Foley and his wife Betty, an extended family who adored her, and countless friends and who where privileged to love and be loved by her.

In her long life, she was a daughter, a wife, a sister, a mother, a grandmother, an aunt, a great aunt, and a friend to many. A private graveside service is planned for family.