Sally Anne Skead

“Wahkaynagok, Manitouwahniquatoak, Mikinakdimoweh, Nagok Mashkode-bizhiki-ikwe, Nokomis-Mide ndigo”

“Name” doodem

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the sudden and peaceful passing of our beloved mother, daughter, sister, grandmother, godmother, aunt, and cousin.

Sally was the heart of the family and a true pillar of love and support. Her love for her family was boundless. She was a friend, a confidante, and a source of joy. She was always ready with a listening ear and to provide support to those in need. Sally was a woman whose warmth, kindness, and unwavering devotion touched everyone who knew her. Her nurturing spirit will live on in all who had the privilege of knowing her.

She was predeceased by her parents, Clifford Skead and Elizabeth Tom; her cherished grandparents, Charlotte (Maamaanaan) and Charlie (Dedenaan) Skead; her uncles, Bill, Alex, Nicolas, Arthur, Albert, and George; her aunts, Cecilia, Aliz, and May; her cousin and best friend, Lynn Skead; and her nephew, Greg.

She is survived by her adoptive mother and friend, Jeanette, whom she admired very much. Her siblings: Kathleen (Ray), Genny, Chris, Steven, Kate (George), Melanie, Daphine (Peter), William, Ruthie, Wanda, Stanley, Patrick, Rochelle, Marcel, Bill, and Charlotte. Her loving children: Nicole (John Boss), Kimberley, Joshua, Alexandria (Paul), and Megan (TJ). Her loving grandchildren: Alina (Jordan), Tyler, Sierra, Serene, Louie, Sara, Asher, Kenton, Leah, Noah, Copelin, and the expected new addition, for whom Sally was so excited, as well as her adoptive grandchildren. Niece and nephews: Robbie, Shannon, Myles, Jeremy, Kyler, Tavish, Quinn, Micaiah, Theoren, Matteo, Daniel, Simon, Fabian, Paula, Rosetta, and Dion.

Numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins from the Skead’s, Joseph’s, Tom’s, Nash’s, Mandamin’s, Redsky’s, Kelly’s, Adam’s, Shebagegit’s, Skeid’s, Sinclair’s, Big George’s Bird’s, Jack’s, and Indian’s families. As there are so many family and friends, too numerous to mention across Turtle Island, we apologize if there are omissions. Everyone was very important to her.

The family wishes to acknowledge Sally’s Mide family, as well as honorable mention to her uncle Gilbert, her friends Sheila and Sam Cameron, Marion Wapioke, Art and family, Joe and family, Chris Louie Skead, Johna-Joe and Debra Kakeway, Becky Fox, Tyson Scott, Hilo Skead, JoJo Roy, Rhonda Nash (AKRC), Rhonda Skead, the fire keepers, Paul Genaille, Logan Skead, Hawk (Tyrus) Skead, and lastly, Char, the palliative nurse from LOTW’s District Hospital.

Sally was a remarkable individual whose life’s work and legacy spanned many influential roles and contributions. As a Kookom in the Midewin Lodge, Sally lovingly supported and mentored newcomers, guiding them through the sacred teachings and ceremonies of the Midewiwin society. As a Jingle Dress Dancer, she honored and shared her cultural traditions, using dance as a form of spiritual healing and expression. In her role as a Knowledge Keeper, Sally preserved and passed down essential Indigenous teachings, ensuring the survival of her heritage for future generations. A dedicated advocate for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two-Spirit People (MMIW2S), she worked to raise awareness, and push for justice and systemic change. As a survivor of the residential school system, Sally bravely shared her experiences to shed light on its enduring impacts, fostering healing and reconciliation. An activist at heart, she passionately championed Indigenous rights, environmental protection, and cultural revitalization. Beyond her advocacy, Sally was an avid sewer in her younger years, creating intricate beadwork and regalia, preserving Indigenous craftsmanship. Her love of travel allowed her to connect with Indigenous communities worldwide, building bridges of understanding and respect across cultures. Sally's multifaceted contributions have left an indelible mark on her community and the broader movement for cultural preservation.

Miigwech to the Chief and Council, Devil’s Gap Marina, the Health staff, the Foundation, Education, and the community members of Wauzhushk Onigum First Nation for their support and donations.

Pallbearers: William Skead, John Skead, Tyler Skead Reno Cameron, TJ Begin, and Paul Hartleib.

The traditional wake and service will be held at the Youth & Elder Building in Wauzhushk Onigum First Nation, starting Wednesday, April 9th, 2025, at 2:00 pm, with the service on Thursday, April 10th, 2025, at 10:00 am. The Traditional Midewiwin Funeral Ceremony will be led by Mide Howard Copenace, Jyles Copenace, and Jolene Fontaine. The Ceremony will conclude at Bare Point, followed by a feast at the Youth and Elder.