of Little Rock, AR
June 15, 1949 - July 1, 2020
Priscilla Ruth Skarda (aka Pris and Miss Pris), 71, of Little Rock, AR, passed away peacefully in her sleep on July 1st, 2020 after a courageous battle with Stage IV Lung Cancer. She was born on June 15th, 1949 to Lee and Rosie Clary in Altus, AR.
She graduated from Morrilton High School in 1967, where she was a cheerleader and homecoming queen. Her friends said that even though she was pretty and popular, she never acted like she knew it and she always treated everyone like a friend. This is how she continued to live her life. She genuinely loved people and never met a stranger.
Her professional career in banking started at Morrilton Security Bank and then she moved to Little Rock and worked for Worthen, Metropolitan, Pulaski & Centennial. She treasured the many friendships she made with her co-workers and customers over the years. She also had a special love for children and dogs and looked forward to them coming to see her at the bank. They brought her much joy and happiness!
After retirement in 2014, she was a full-time caregiver for her husband, who had Dementia. For three years, she took incredible care of him. She was the love of his life and their 45-year marriage was a beautiful example of unconditional love. She then took on her next rewarding career and became a caregiver to some very special people, who gave her purpose in life once again. Her undeniable love for the elderly showed and they loved her right back. They especially loved how funny she was and how much fun she was to be around. She believed laughter is the best medicine and would tell them, ''If we can't have fun doing it, then we're not doing it''!
Along with her cheerful attitude (even during cancer!) and heart of gold, she also had a very generous spirit. On more than one occasion, she offered to give her kidney to someone who needed a transplant. And gift-giving was her favorite hobby! She was truly a beautiful person inside and out and will be missed by many.
She is survived by her daughter, Tina Downey (and husband Steve), who she lovingly called ''my most blessed gift''; sister, Bobbie Sexton; and furbaby, Lola. She is preceded in death by her husband, Ron Skarda; parents; infant son, Michael Chadley Leach; and sister, Margaret Smith.
A graveside service will be held on August 5th, 2020 at 10am in Elmwood Cemetery, Morrilton, AR. Priscilla will be buried with her husband, Ron, on their 48th wedding anniversary.
.In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Humane Society of Pulaski County or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
Priscilla lit up a room by walking in it. She spread joy, love and kindness to others and received it back tenfold. In the last months of her life, she felt the outpouring of love from her friends and family more than ever. She went to Heaven knowing that her life had made a difference. Thank you to everyone who touched her precious life, as well as the ''angels'' who blessed her daughter this year in so many ways.
Arrangements by Roller-Chenal Funeral Home.
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52 Condolence(s)
JO E MAYFIELD
Wednesday, November 4, 2020
Oh my gosh.................Tina: I had sent Priscilla some photos of you and Jane taken many years ago. They came back today, undeliverable. Oh kiddo - what a shock. I went on line to see if I could get some other information for her; and found her obituary. The last time I saw her was right as you were moving back, and she was so thrilled you were home. TIna: we had such a wonderful time (a few weeks before Thanksgiving 2019) She said absolutely nothing about how things were other than she missed your dad a lot. This is such a shock............now I know why I never heard from here.
Jo-Ellyn I introduced your dad to Priscilla.
Chaplain Beverly White
Saturday, August 8, 2020
What a joy it was to be her Chaplain at the Comfort Care Center. I'll never forget the day I met her. There she was standing at the nurse's station. I stopped and asked, ma'am can I help you, who are you here to visit? She said, "I AM the patient!" We laughed together...She was an absolute joy! I'm sorry I didn't know in time to attend her services. Thank you for sharing her with us...
Sharonda Stigall
Thursday, July 23, 2020
Will forever be missed. Love and miss you mama pris
Steven and Dawn Bravard
Wednesday, July 22, 2020
We loved Pris beyond measure. She will always be remembered for her love of children and animals. We look forward to the day that we can be reunited with her in Heaven.
Pris, we miss and love you so much. You were an angel on earth.
Until we meet again. Love, Steven, Dawn, Spirit and Tori and our great nieces who loved you so much, Annaleigh and Aniston.
Bernadette Leach
Wednesday, July 22, 2020
Charles Session
Wednesday, July 22, 2020
Kristi Thurmon
Wednesday, July 22, 2020
I worked with Pris for 5 years at Twin City Bank. Her laughter was infectious and her love for people and dogs was undeniable. She will be truly missed.
Paula Allen
Tuesday, July 21, 2020
Tina, I am so sorry for you loss. You can never replace your Mother. She was a bright and shining star who remained positive throughout her short battle. May you have comfort knowing she is celebrating in heaven and looking over you. Much love to you
Jean Parham
Monday, July 20, 2020
U will truly be missed. U can take your rest,till we meet again ðŸ™ðŸ™
Nena Padron Russell
Monday, July 20, 2020
Beautiful Memorial. I hope that God grants you comfort.
Tricia Hubbs
Monday, July 20, 2020
Pris, you were beautiful inside and out. I will always cherish our years together at Pulaski Bank.Sorry David Bazzel and I didn't get to have that lunch with you that we talked about. Rest in Peace sweet lady.
Brenda McCann
Monday, July 20, 2020
Tina, your Mom was one in a million she was such a loving giving person. She always had a smile on her face and enjoyed people. I will miss her , when a few of us got together at Cracker Barrel we had such a good time. You remind me of her in your pictures.
Jeanie McArthur Want
Monday, July 20, 2020
Tina, praying that God will comfort you. I am so sorry. I will always have great memories of her.
Robert Harris
Monday, July 20, 2020
Tina your mom was a beautiful lady and you are in my prayers. God bless you
Joyce Chaffin
Monday, July 20, 2020
A beautiful tribute to your mom. So sorry for your loss.
Nancy Ray
Monday, July 20, 2020
That was a beautiful tribute to a woman beautiful inside and out. She taught me things in the years I knew her. She was never down for more than a moment. If I admired a nail polish, lipstick, product she used for her dogs, the next thing I would know is she would send it to me. Truly a person who would give you the shirt off of her back, I loved her and admired her deeply. I am keeping you in my prayers as losing parents is one of those seasons in life that are so bittersweet.
Nicole
Monday, July 20, 2020
What a wonderful tribute to Pris. She was a one of a kind lady. I was so blessed to be part of her life and miss her dearly!
Charleen
Monday, July 20, 2020
My prayers are with you, Tina as you walk this next season on earth without your Mom here with you. She was a beautiful woman and you are so much like her in your love for others.
Susan Washington
Monday, July 20, 2020
Beautiful video! What a lovely person she must have been!
Saundra Guest
Sunday, July 19, 2020
What a beautiful tribute to your mom, Tina. I can see you have your mother’s heart for people and especially for dogs. I wish I had met her sometime in all the years I have known you. She will be missed by many but not as much as you will. Cherish the memories. They will buoy you up at the moments you miss her the most.
Love and hugs,
Sandy
Kay Daniels
Sunday, July 19, 2020
I was blessed to have Pris as the caregiver for my mom the past two and a half years. It’s impossible to put into words what she meant to my mom, to me and to my family. She loved and cared for my mom like she was her daughter (in fact, the workers at the nursing home thought she was the daughter and I was the caregiver!!). She loved mother and brightened up her world the minute she walked into her house or room! She also loved my girls and grandchildren and my cat. And she would do anything for us. Pris was just so full of life and joy!! It’s hard to believe she’s gone....but it is so comforting to know she’s with Jesus and not battling cancer anymore. We will miss her so!💔
Kay Daniels
Sunday, July 19, 2020
I was blessed to have Pris as the caregiver for my mom the past two and a half years. It’s impossible to put into words what she meant to my mom, to me and to my family. She loved and cared for my mom like she was her daughter (in fact, the workers at the nursing home thought she was the daughter and I was the caregiver!!). She loved mother and brightened up her world the minute she walked into her house or room! She also loved my girls and grandchildren and my cat. And she would do anything for us. Pris was just so full of life and joy!! It’s hard to believe she’s gone....but it is so comforting to know she’s with Jesus and not battling cancer anymore. We will miss her so!💔
Wade Ledbetter
Sunday, July 19, 2020
Tina I am so very sorry for your loss. Prayers for you and yoursâ¤
John Clements
Sunday, July 19, 2020
I’ll always remember Pris at Pulaski bank. I always enjoyed stoping and sitting for a talk and smile
John Clements
Sunday, July 19, 2020
I’ll always remember Pris at Pulaski bank. I always enjoyed stoping and sitting for a talk and smile
Shelly Troutman
Sunday, July 19, 2020
You were someone I only knew through social media. I can honestly say, I could feel the kindness in your words. See the sincerity in your eyes and feel the love and joy you shared with the world, through your smile. I am so thankful that God put you in my life. To all your family, friends and fur baby, my thoughts and prayers are with you. Thank you for sharing your moms life with me in this journey.
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Shelly Troutman
Sunday, July 19, 2020
You were someone I only knew through social media. I can honestly say, I could feel the kindness in your words. See the sincerity in your eyes and feel the love and joy you shared with the world, through your smile. I am so thankful that God put you in my life. To all your family, friends and fur baby, my thoughts and prayers are with you. Thank you for sharing your moms life with me in this journey.
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Kaye Bass
Sunday, July 19, 2020
I met Priscilla in the 7th grade at Morrilton Junior High School! She had me at hello! Pris was kind, loving, funny, and a great friend with a wonderful personality. We had much fun together over the next 6 years. I reconnected when I moved back to Little Rock in our 30’s. Although we didn’t share the same friends, she and I always enjoyed each other’s company and friendship whenever we could. I admired her and loved her. She will be truly missed♥ï¸â™¥ï¸â™¥ï¸
Julie Carter
Sunday, July 19, 2020
Pris was one of those people who could put you in a better mood with just her smile, and once she started talking to you it was inevitable that you’d be laughing at her stories. I adored working with her, and valued her opinion and advice on my career in banking and my personal life. Tina, your momma was an angel on earth and I will never forget her.
Sam wells
Sunday, July 19, 2020
We were neighbors for many years we loved Pris and Ronnie they will both be missed we had some great Halloween get together prayers for Tina in her time of healing
Dovey Tweedy
Wednesday, July 15, 2020
I worked with Pris for 12 years. She was one of the kindest, sweetest, funniest ladies I have ever known. She was truly beautiful inside and out. I just found out about her passing. Bless her heart. Her and Ronnie are now together again. Rest in Love sweet lady. You were one of a kind.
Catrina Chandler
Thursday, July 9, 2020
Pris will truly be missed, I loved her like a Mother. I had the privilege to work with Pris at Pulaski and Centennial Banks. Pris has always been there for me. Her Love was unconditional and she had my back both professionally and personally. Tina your Mother was amazing! I love her and I will miss her.
Victor Fleming
Thursday, July 9, 2020
Fond memories of Priscilla's bright smile and friendliness at MNB over a long stretch! Condolences to all family and close friends on your loss.
Vic Fleming
Beth Lear
Tuesday, July 7, 2020
Tina I want you to know your Mother was a sweet wonderful lady and a friend from high school. She was always so sweet and kind to me. I know that she and Ron are as happy to be together again in heaven. I will miss her very much
Paula Stewart
Tuesday, July 7, 2020
My husband who had a problem totaling his deposits always liked for Pris to wait on him. She was so patient and so nice. Then we found we had another connection to Pris and Tina. Tina's great-grandmother, Tillie Sharp, was the best friend in the world to our family during a terrible time when my Dad was in the hospital for months and we were far from family, and Tillie became family to us. She and Bill and Tina's grandparents stayed with us when they came to Little Rock for Tina's college graduation. They were so proud of Tina and they loved Pris. Tina, please let me know if there is anything I can do to help you.
Larry West
Monday, July 6, 2020
Girl, I have so many amazing memories that revolve around us over three decades. I love you and thank you for making this life a better place to be! .
Felicia Racey
Saturday, July 4, 2020
I knew Priss from Pulaski Bank and Trust. She was always kind and joyful. No matter who you were or status. Truly irreplaceable person!
Kathy Adler
Friday, July 3, 2020
I only knew Pris through her beloved daughter Tina. She was a wonderful mother who leaves a beautiful legacy in Tina. She now flies, whole and healthy, with Gods angels. Much love and hugs to the entire family.
Jane Galloway
Friday, July 3, 2020
Your Mother had the biggest smile and heart that she gave freely to anyone she met. I worked with her and she always was a joy to be around. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Mike Ringel
Friday, July 3, 2020
Tina,
I'm so sorry to have heard of the passing of your Mom. From the announcement, she held a very special place in her heart for you as I know you did for her. Every time you think of her put a smile on your face of those times the two of you spent together.
Sue Felty
Friday, July 3, 2020
Pris was a wonderful friend, co-worker and just a joy to be around. She always had an upbeat attitude about everything. She will be missed!
Laurice Taylor
Friday, July 3, 2020
May the family and friends find peace and comfort at this time of loss. Pris will be missed.
Jan Walker
Friday, July 3, 2020
Pris was “one of a kind!†She & I shared a thousand laughs. She loved my grandchildren & they loved her. I will miss her so much.
Sherry&George Runk
Friday, July 3, 2020
Our hearts are full. A beautiful person inside and out went to be with our Lord on July 1st 2020. God Bless Tina her daughter for everything she has done for her Mother. Rest In Peace PrisðŸ™ðŸ»
Annette Delgado
Friday, July 3, 2020
God is sharing laughter with Pris today. She touched so many lives and such a special person. May you find peace in God’s love.
Chris Palmer
Friday, July 3, 2020
During h thE 80’s, I used to drop my check book off to Pris at Pulaski Bank on “R†street so Pris could make sure it balanced. When I got a safety deposit box, she kept the extra key so I wouldn’t lose it! I followed her to Centennial and remained her customer and friend through her retirement. She’s terrific!
Judy Brown
Thursday, July 2, 2020
Pris was loved by so many and will definitely be missed. She may be gone from Earth but she left a positive lasting impact on so many lives. Prayers for her family.
Jean Toney Hervey
Thursday, July 2, 2020
May Pricilla's soul rest in the arms of Jesus. My classmates 1967. May God comfort the family as you mourn your loss. Condolenses to the entire family.
Gary Wood
Thursday, July 2, 2020
Knew Ron and Pris since 1976. Never seen any two as dedicated to each other as them. Two words describe Pris . Unconditional Love. She once told me she loved her hounds so much because fur babies love you unconditionally. Said people could learn from pets about how to love . Never once was she to busy for me to come visit or cry on her shoulder . I remember that country voice she could talk in made me and everyone laugh . I look forward to seeing her in Glory when my time comes !!
Rita Pike
Thursday, July 2, 2020
I adored you. You were such a classy lady. Rest in peace beautiful Pris!
Beckie Miles
Thursday, July 2, 2020
Pris and I have been friends for over 30 years,
She was the sister that I never had. Most of the time , We were joined at the hip I will miss her. And she will always be in my heart. Maw Maw. YAYA sister
Paula Allen
Thursday, July 2, 2020
Pris was a true angel who came into my life in Jan. She was always happy even when she was fighting cancer. I admired her attitude. She was such a bright spot in my life. I know she is watching down on you Tina. May God give you comfort knowing how much she loved and was lovedâ¤ï¸ She is reunited with the love of her life and walking the streets of gold!