Eleanor Mary Skinner

Eleanor Mary Skinner 

March 7, 1939 – May 10, 2025

Eleanor Mary Skinner, beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully on May 10, 2025, in Las Cruces, New Mexico, with her son Mike and daughter-in-law Julie by her side. She was 86 years old.

Born on March 7, 1939, in Worcester, Massachusetts, to Caroline Barbrick and Anthony Antonelli, Eleanor’s early life was marked by resilience and strength. She spent part of her childhood in foster care before reuniting with her family and beginning a journey that would span many states and touch many lives.

At just 17, she met Steven Skinner while he was serving in the U.S. Navy in Rhode Island. The two married and moved to Southern California, where they raised their children: Mike, born in 1958, and Sheryl, born in 1962. Eleanor also gave birth to a daughter in 1956, Carol Sullivan Stillo, who now lives in Georgia.

Eleanor’s faith in Jesus was a guiding light throughout her life, and though she was not always a regular churchgoer, her belief remained deep and unwavering. She moved with her children to Colorado in 1999 and later relocated to Las Cruces in 2020, where she found joy in being close to family.

A dedicated waitress for over 51 years, Eleanor was known for her warmth, work ethic, and the kindness she showed to everyone she served. Her presence was a quiet yet steady force, always rooted in love and care for those around her.

Eleanor was preceded in death by her parents and her granddaughter, Candice Leikam. She is survived by her children, grandchildren—Justin, Kristen, and Danielle—and two great-grandsons, Aiden and Grady, all of whom carry her memory forward with love.

Her life was one of perseverance, devotion, and simple joys. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.