Kathi Sue Skehan

December 28, 1955 – June 30, 2025

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Kathi Sue Skehan. Kathi departed this life suddenly on Monday, June 30, 2025, at Indiana University Hospital in Bloomington, Indiana. She was 69 years young and leaves behind a legacy of strength, humor, and unconditional love. Born on December 28, 1955, in Chicago, Illinois, Kathi was a true Capricorn—loyal, steadfast, and full of willpower and wisdom. In her younger years, she lived in Canada and various places across the U.S., eventually settling in Indianapolis, Indiana. Later, she made her home in

Bloomington, where she moved decades ago to be near her best friend and chosen sister, Cheryl Long. Their bond was one of laughter, unwavering support, and deep love. Their two families became one.

Kathi is survived by her devoted daughter and caretaker of the last two years, Angela Fields Smith, and her son-in-law, Joseph Smith (Baltimore, Maryland). She was a proud grandmother to Jamice Skehan (Indianapolis, Indiana), Deasia Johnson (Louisville, Kentucky), and Robert, Ajai, and Joshua Coleman (all of Maryland). Her cherished great-grandchildren include Ty'Leah, Travis, and Trystan, Ty'Lai, Tamariyae Boyd, Tyrone Boyd Jr., and Ja'mir Johnson.

Kathi's family extended far beyond blood. She was deeply woven into the lives of her bonus family. She is survived by her sisters Cheryl Long (Jeff Hayes) and Teresa Habiby (John Jay Habiby); nieces Jorden and Ivy Habiby; daughters-at-heart Criss Babbs and Brandi Toms; sons- in-law Joey "Joe Joe" Babbs and Brad Toms; grandchildren Holli Babbs, Hanna Babbs, Morgan Whaley, Christopher Whaley, and Liam Toms; and great-grandchildren Kinley Umphress and Kooper Babbs.

She also leaves behind her beloved cats—Dozier, Bentley, Bruiser, and Caesar—who were her constant companions and brought her immense comfort and joy. After a life filled with both heartache and joy, Kathi is finally at peace. She is reunited with her beloved son, James "Jamie" Skehan, and her faithful German Shepherd, Major Payne—both of whom she missed every single day.

In accordance with Kathi's wishes, there will be no formal funeral service. Instead, her close family and friends will honor her life with a private celebration—filled with stories, laughter, good music, and great food. Kathi didn't want tears in pews; she wanted smiles, memories, and a table full of the people she loved most.

In honor of Kathi's deep love for animals, donations may be made in her memory to the Bloomington Animal Shelter (City of Bloomington Animal Care and Control). Supporting them is a beautiful way to carry on her legacy of compassion.

To donate, please visit: https://cfbmc.fcsuite.com/erp/donate/create/fund?funit_id=1274