Wilma Lucille Richard Gaskin of Boaz, Alabama took her first steps in the kingdom of heaven on January 19, 2021, at the age of 94. She slipped into eternity with family by her side and went to the arms of Jesus.
Lucille was born April 10, 1926 in Whitesboro, Alabama. She married Ernest Gaskin in 1942 and the two had five children.
Lucille was a caregiver and a nurturer by nature. In addition to her own children, she had a hand in raising many nieces, nephews and grandchildren, and she was a mother or grandmother figure to anyone who needed a safe haven or a listening ear. Her home was often full, and her door was always open.
As a homemaker, Lucille was a true Proverbs 31 woman. She loved her family fiercely, and was a wonderful wife, mother and grandmother. She was an accomplished maker of biscuits, and on special occasions, would cover them in everyone’s favorite – chocolate gravy! As a young wife and mother, she made clothes for her children, sold insurance, picked cotton, or sold Avon to help make a living for her family. She was very skilled at crocheting. Even to the very end of life, she could be found sitting in the chair of her living room, crocheting gifts for her large extended family. Anyone who ever visited had a handmade doily offered to them as a parting gift.
Every year for decades, she hosted a large Thanksgiving gathering at her house where everyone was welcome and there was never a shortage of food. At Christmas, every guest, friend, neighbor or child who happened to show up received a gift – often, something she had crocheted herself. No one was left out; no matter how distant the relation or acquaintance, every guest would find a gift with their name on it under her tree. Hospitality was the virtue of her household.
The real legacy Lucille leaves behind is one of great faith and service to Jesus Christ. As a long-time preacher’s wife, she dedicated herself to a life of ministry. She taught Bible study and Sunday school throughout her life. After becoming a widow, she continued her ministry by holding Bible studies for her senior citizens groups. She stood firm in her faith, was an inspiration to many and showed the love of Christ to everyone.
There was no area of her life where her mission to serve Christ was more fervent or effective than in her own household. She was a dedicated prayer warrior over the lives of her children, grandchildren and extended family. The sounds of her playing piano in the hallway and singing hymns – like Victory in Jesus – still echo in our hearts. She enjoyed her salvation and truly enjoyed worshipping God. The family is comforted knowing she is walking the streets of heaven with her Savior.
Lucille was preceded in death by her husband of nearly 60 years, Ernest Gaskin; daughter, Marie Simpson; son-in-law Billy Simpson; grandson Scotty Burton; and great grandson, Dustin Culbert.
She is survived by her children: Wayne (Charlotte) Gaskin, Teresa (Johnny) Painter, Greg (Darlene) Gaskin, and Myra (Barre) Pannell; and many grandchildren, great grandchildren, great-great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.
Graveside services will be at 2 p.m. Saturday, January 23, 2021 at Whitesboro Cemetery. Bro. Alan Hallmark will officiate the service. The family will receive visitors from 1:15 until 2 at the cemetery before the service.
Albertville Memorial Chapel Directing
