Lillian Russell Skittlethorpe

Lillian Russell Skittlethorpe, 93, of 315 Mexico Road, entered into the Joy of her Lord on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, from her home where she was cared for and surrounded by family.

Mrs. Skittlethorpe was born in Perquimans County on November 6, 1931, and was the daughter of the late James A., Jr. and Urser Nurney Russell. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in by death by sisters Wilma and Elizabeth, brothers Harry and Monroe, and by two grandsons.

Retired from George C. Moore Company, she later worked for many years at the former Pate’s Florist. A faithful member of Edenton First Assembly, she arranged the activities of the senior group, “The Classics”, and handled the church custodial work for more than 30 years.

Mrs. Skittlethorpe was a graduate of Perquimans County High School where she played on the girls’ basketball team, and she was always proud of and quick to tell you that she had been named the “Prettiest Girl” of her class. Through the years she continued to keep in touch with her classmates and organize the class reunions because next to family, friends were most important to her.

Surviving is her husband of over 62 years, Maryland Skittlethorpe; four daughters, Nancy Jess of Edenton, Linda Ricks (husband, Jimmie) of Boykins, VA, Jackie Pierce (husband, Adal) of Windsor, NC, and Patti Tynch (husband, Stan Jr.) of Edenton; two sons, Doug Grant (wife, Karla) of Kingsland, TX and Steve Grant (wife, Kay) of San Antonio, TX; 23 grandchildren, 43 great-grandchildren, and 4 great-great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held Friday, October 10th, at 2:00 p.m., in Edenton First Assembly by Pastors Andrew Knott and Randy Pierce. The burial will follow in Beaver Hill Cemetery. Friends may visit with the family on Thursday evening from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. in Miller & Van Essendelft Funeral Home, 735 Virginia Road, Edenton, and all other times at the residence.

Flowers are welcomed, or contributions in her memory may be made to Edenton First Assembly, 1201 West Queen Street, Edenton, NC 27932.

Online condolences may be made by visiting www.millerfhc.com.