Linda Mae Skinner

Linda Skinner was born on December 1, 1937, in Oklahoma, the youngest of two daughters. From her earliest days, she brought a sense of curiosity and quiet determination to the world around her. She shared a lifelong bond with her sister, Eloise Rogers, who now lives with her husband, Cal, in Sonoma, California. Linda passed away peacefully on December 8, 2025, at the age of 88. She was predeceased by her beloved husband, Don Skinner, and is survived by her stepsons Chris and Jeff Skinner, her nephews Jay and Rick Rogers, and her partner Mike Graf.

Linda’s life was defined by a joyful spirit of exploration. Though born in Oklahoma, she moved to Albuquerque at a young age and later lived in Portland, Tucson, San Diego, and finally Carlsbad—each place becoming a chapter in her story. Wherever she went, she loved discovering what made that corner of the world unique. She dug for clams along the coast, searched for tide pools, wandered botanical gardens, and crossed the border for day trips to Tijuana.

Linda’s sense of adventure carried her far beyond the West Coast she called home. Her travels spanned the globe, taking her to Africa—including Ghana, Sierra Leone, and Nigeria—across Asia to Indonesia, Thailand, Japan, and the Philippines, and throughout Central America, where she spent especially meaningful time in Guatemala. Closer to home, she cruised the mighty Mississippi River and delighted in the rugged, awe-inspiring beauty of Alaska. For many years, Linda also explored the American West with her cherished RV club, forming deep friendships and creating memories that endured for a lifetime.

Linda had a gift for helping others. She began her professional life as an occupational therapist before following a true calling in education. For 25 years, she served as an elementary school teacher in the San Diego School District, nurturing young minds with patience, enthusiasm, and a heartfelt belief in every child’s potential. Her students were fortunate to have a guide who saw teaching not just as a job, but as a meaningful contribution to the future.

Outside the classroom, Linda expressed her creativity through quilting. She was an expert quilter—an artist, really—who brought intricate patterns together with care and imagination. Her quilts ranged from warm, comforting pieces meant to be lived with and loved, to exquisite designs best displayed as works of art. Each stitch reflected her steady hands, generous spirit, and eye for beauty.

She had a special love for dogs, and none held her heart more than her beloved Milo. Energetic, playful, and endlessly friendly, Milo was her devoted companion, returning her affection tenfold. Through quiet moments and daily routines alike, he remained faithfully by her side, bringing joy, comfort, and companionship through the end of her life.

In recent years, Linda made her home with her partner, Mike Graf, at Laguna Estates Senior Living in Carlsbad, California. There, she was surrounded by a compassionate community of residents and staff who enriched her days and cared for her with warmth and dignity.

Linda will be remembered for her sense of adventure, her creativity, her devotion to family, and the gentle kindness she brought into every room. Her life was full – woven from many places, many people, and many moments of joy.

She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the San Diego Humane Society and the Hospice of the North Coast.