Beloved mom, grandma, friend, and the unofficial mayor of everywhere she went

Naomi Scales, 81, passed away peacefully, surrounded by love.

Born in Ohio, Naomi made her home in Chamberlain, South Dakota, in 1972. Just a year later, in March of 1973, she married Joe Scales, beginning a life filled with love, laughter, and more than a few spirited debates.

Naomi never met a stranger — only people she hadn't charmed yet. Over the years, she managed several businesses in Chamberlain, transforming workplaces into extended families. Whether you knew her as your boss, your neighbor, or the friendly face behind the counter, chances are she remembered your name, your kids' names.

After Joe passed away, she was lucky enough to find Russ Davis and they moved to Sheridan, Wy. Russ brought her many years of companionship, warmth and joy to her later years.

She is survived by her children: Denzel Sipes, San Diego, CA, Troy Sipes (Roxanne), Mitchell, SD, and JoLee Frederiksen (Mike), Elkton, SD, who carry forward her wit, wisdom, and just a touch of her stubborn streak. Her legacy continues through her grandchildren — Ray, Brittney, Paige, Kevin, Tyler, Tea, and Ethan — and her great-grandchildren: Spencer, Shaymus, and Beau, who will grow up hearing stories about a great-grandma who could outtalk, outbake, and out love just about anyone.

Naomi was the kind of person who made life better simply by being in it. She was quick with a joke, generous with her time, and always ready with a cup of coffee and a listening ear. Her presence will be deeply missed, but her stories, laughter, and love live on in everyone lucky enough to have known her.

A celebration of Naomi's life will be held Friday, October 31, 2025 from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. with a prayer service at 6:00 p.m. at the Hickey Funeral Chapel in Chamberlain, SD, where friends and family are invited to share memories and hugs.

And maybe a few glasses of wine in her honor at Charly's Restuarant following the prayer service for more sharing of memories.

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