Carly Ann Skaggs, affectionately remembered by those who knew her, passed away in the early hours of November 24, 2022, at the age of 28. Her life, though marked by the challenges of Fragile X Syndrome, was a testament to the power of love, family, and the simple joys that resonated deeply within her. Born on December 11, 1993, in Las Cruces, New Mexico, Carly was the cherished daughter of Roy Phillip Skaggs and Melissa Ann Skaggs, and a beloved sister.
Raised in the heart of Arkansas, Carly spent much of her life in Hot Springs. Fragile X Syndrome, a rare genetic condition she was born with, presented significant intellectual and behavioral disabilities that became more pronounced as she grew. Despite these challenges, Carly navigated her world with a unique spirit that touched many. A significant milestone in her life was graduating from Hot Springs High School in 2012, an achievement made even more special when her peers honored her by electing her prom queen. This moment highlighted the warmth and acceptance she found within her community. For the decade following graduation, Carly was embraced by her loving family and, in her final months, received dedicated care from Sabrina Stearns.
Carly’s life was preceded in passing by her father, Phil Skaggs, along with her uncle, cousin, and all her grandparents. She is survived by her mother, Melissa Skaggs, and her siblings, Casey and Amanda Skaggs, who will forever hold her in their hearts. Her extended family, including aunts, uncles, and cousins, also mourn her passing, remembering the special place Carly held within their family. As a devoted member of Hot Springs First Baptist Church, Carly found joy and community in her Sunday School classes. Her love for learning never truly faded, as school represented a comforting constant throughout her childhood. The bond she shared with Tresa, who became a vital part of her life in her final year, was particularly meaningful.
Music was the soundtrack to Carly’s life. Singing, writing, and even playing basketball were among her favorite pastimes, but music held a special significance. She had a deep affection for Taylor Swift’s early albums and the soundtracks from High School Musical, filling her days with these familiar melodies. Her love for Christmas songs was unparalleled; she possessed an incredible ability to memorize lyrics, correcting anyone who dared to misquote them. Carly’s distinctive laugh and playful sense of humor brought joy to those around her, creating lasting memories for her loved ones.
Beyond her love for music, Carly had a remarkable knack for organization and responsibility. She took pride in her chores, maintained meticulous personal hygiene, and diligently kept notes in her calendar and journal. Her impeccable memory was a constant source of amazement; she remembered even the smallest details and precise dates. Carly’s concern for her family’s well-being was evident in her daily inquiries about dinner plans, and her unwavering reminders about important tasks. She had a fondness for the color purple and enjoyed expressing herself through jewelry. Her naturally curly hair, a beautiful and defining feature, was a source of both endearment and, at times, frustration for Carly, who, despite her family’s reassurance of its beauty, sometimes wished for straight hair like others. The deep love Carly had for her family extended to her canine companions, Abby and Delilah. Demonstrating her caring nature and developing skills, Carly learned to assist her mother with insulin injections, showing a remarkable sense of responsibility despite her own challenges.
While Carly’s early years were characterized by a milder impact of Fragile X Syndrome, allowing her to engage in many typical childhood activities, puberty brought significant changes. Her behavioral challenges intensified, and her sensitivity to the world around her increased. The loss of her father in 2016 deepened her struggles, leading to a depression that remained a constant presence in her life. Despite the unwavering love and support from her family and community, a part of Carly remained missing, and her ability to navigate the world continued to diminish.
A significant and heartbreaking aspect of Carly’s journey was the frequent dismissal of her physical health concerns by the medical community. Her special needs often overshadowed her physical ailments, leading to a neglectful approach to her overall healthcare. The difficulty in distinguishing between behavioral and physical symptoms resulted in doctors and medical professionals often overlooking her genuine physical needs. Even mental health professionals, who might have been expected to provide support, sometimes expressed a sense of helplessness. This pattern of dismissal persisted even in her final months, suggesting that Carly’s passing was, in part, a consequence of a medical system that failed to see her as a whole person with both mental and physical health needs.
Now, Carly Carrigan is reunited with her father, free from the earthly constraints and illnesses that marked her life. As we mourn her loss, we also celebrate her newfound peace and liberation. May she rest in eternal peace.
A memorial service to honor Carly’s life will be held on December 07, 2022, at 11:00 am at First Baptist Church in Hot Springs, Arkansas. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Carly’s name to support causes dear to her heart, via the provided GoFundMe link. Arrangements are being handled with care by Carrigan Memorial Funeral Services, ensuring a respectful farewell for Carly Carrigan. The guest registry for those wishing to share their condolences and memories is available online at the Carrigan Memorial website.
