Sierra Skinner

With what should have been so many years left in which to compose her life’s song, Sierra Skinner was taken from those she loved. Life was just beginning to blossom for her as becoming a mother inspired her to set out on a new path filled with adventures with the little boy who was the light of her life. Sierra was a young woman of great strength and promise whose compassionate eyes could brighten even the darkest of days in the lives of those around her. Although life will never be the same without Sierra here, the impact she leaves behind in the hearts and lives of her loved ones will be a lasting treasure for generations to come.

The 1990s were a decade that forever shaped the cultural fabric of our nation. This decade saw the explosion of the world wide web and personal computers that were becoming part of American homes like never before. Microsoft became a household name while television programs such as Seinfeld and Friends made their way into living rooms from coast to coast. Nestled within this vibrant decade was the year 1992 that brought unspeakable joy to one young woman from Chattanooga, Tennessee, as she was thrilled to welcome a baby girl into her hearts and home. Baby Sierra was born 56 days premature, which made her one tiny baby girl. She thrived, however, and was a good baby who was blessed to have her mother stay home with her for the first two-and-a-half years of her life. The time mother and daughter spent together during those early years were priceless and fostered opportunities for plenty of bonding between the two.

At 15 months of age, Sierra was still so small that she was able to be carried around in an infant car seat. When her mother set the seat down, it was not uncommon for a determined Sierra to wriggle her way out and start walking around, much to the dismay of onlookers as she looked so much younger based on her size. When her younger brother, Benjamin, was born it was the first night Sierra was ever away from her mother. She embraced her role as a big sister and frequently helped with him.

After two-and-a-half years, Sierra moved from Chattanooga to Michigan with her family, living in various cities until they finally settled in Paw Paw. She adapted to her new surroundings with ease and attended local schools. Sierra was a little worried to start first grade as she couldn’t read, but this only fueled her determination and it wasn’t long before she was reading with flying colors. In fact, she was even invited to go to other schools with the teacher to read to other students. Sierra always liked school, especially spelling bees. Her high school years found her at Paw Paw High School where she was involved in cheer leading for a time. Although she left school before graduating, Sierra did earn her GED.

Even though she fell into some hard times, Sierra was blessed to become a mother to her beautiful little boy, Jordan. Her son inspired her and gave her the courage she needed to change her ways as being a wonderful mother was her greatest desire. Sierra soon moved to Kalamazoo with good friends and enjoyed spending as much time with Jordan as she could. They especially enjoyed being outside together whether they were at the park or just playing at home outside. Sierra spent a lot of time reading to her son and playing with him and his blanket. She also worked for a cleaning service that cleaned both businesses and residential homes.

Although her mom lived in Indiana, Sierra always shared a special relationship with her. They talked often and were really more like best friends than they were like a typical mother and daughter. No matter what was going on between them, Sierra could always change her mother’s mood right around with her deep eyes and a look that melted her mother’s heart.

There were so many things to love and appreciate about Sierra. She had such bright eyes that were warm and inviting. It seemed as though Sierra could brighten someone else's mood just by giving them a smile and a special look. As her friends and family can attest, she had an unbeatable sense of humor, and with her drive to accomplish great things she inspired so many others within her reach. When she was hanging around with Jordan Sierra was most comfortable in sweat pants, but when she was going out she liked to dress up and look her best.

Through the love she gave those around her, Sierra Skinner created a brilliant collection of memories that are a true gift to her family and friends. She inspired us with the love she had for her son and taught us to fully embrace each day we are given. We could always count on Sierra to tell us like she saw it as she rarely hesitated to speak her mind. A blessing given to us for such a short time, she will be deeply missed while the memories she created will be forever etched on our hearts.

Learn more about Sierra and visit with her family and friends on Thursday from 5 – 8 PM at the Life Story Funeral Home, Betzler & Thompson –Paw Paw; 60900 M-40 (657-3870), where a service will be held at 1:00 on Friday at the funeral home. Sierra was preceded in death by a brother, Michael Williams. She is survived by her son, Jordan; mother, Laura Hiatt-Smith; brothers, Benjamin Dheel, Blake Williams; Claudell (Clay) Smith-Thibault and Rickey (Ric) Smith-Thibault; sister Anna Williams-Thibault; grandparents, Victor Jack and Mary Ellen Hiatt. Please visit Sierra’s personal web page at www.lifestorynet.com, where you can archive a favorite memory or photo and sign her online guestbook before coming to the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to Betzler & Thompson Life Story Funeral Home to cover funeral costs.