27 August, 1930 – 15 February, 2024
It is with great sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of our beloved mother Sheila with family at her side. Daughter of the late Amelia and Cornelius O’Sullivan and loving wife of the late John Skinner. Sheila is also predeceased by her son Nicholas, her son-in-law Glenn and her sister Pat Cooke. Loving mother of Mark (Carmen), Juliet Fotheringham, Andrew (Theresa), Alyson, David (Maureen), Clare Chabot (Steve) and Ruth. Adored Nana of Paul (Tanya), Erica (Greig), John (Noor), James, Jessica (Paolo), Victoria (Jay), Ted (Katie), Adam (Emily), Simon (Danielle), Ben (Jenn), Sarah, Emily, Reid (Miranda), Matthew, Luke, Andrew and Elizabeth. She will be dearly missed by her 11 great grandchildren and her nephews in England, Simon and Tim.
Born in Surrey, England, Sheila and her sister Pat attended convent schools run by religious orders, moving frequently due to the war. Her family and the loving sisters of the convent schools shaped Sheila’s devout spiritual life as a Catholic and her love of service to others.
Sheila completed training as a Physiotherapist in London, England. After marrying John Alfred Skinner, they moved to Canada and lovingly welcomed eight children. Sheila was a stay-at-home Mom devoting her time, love and energy to her family and community. After the sudden passing of her beloved husband John (at the early age of 57), she returned to work as an Early Childhood Educator at Butternut Square nursery, an Educational Assistant with the Toronto Catholic District School Board and, after retirement, a volunteer at Centenary Hospital.
It is difficult to put the life of a cherished one into a few words. Sheila, Mum, Nana was small but mighty and was loved and respected by all who knew her. Although she was very accomplished, it was her husband, children and home who were her most treasured gifts. Sheila’s quiet, peaceful but determined nature grew out of her dedication to a contemplative prayer life and devotion to her faith. The strength with which they provided her through challenging times was a shining example to all who seek a deep connection with their God and the pursuit of love and peace for all.
The family would like to express a very heartfelt thank you to the staff at Coleman Care Centre in Barrie where Sheila was lovingly, thoughtfully and tenderly cared for during the last two years.
Relatives and friends are invited to visit with the Skinner Family at Paul O’Connor Funeral Home, 1939 Lawrence Ave E, Scarborough on Friday, February 23, 2024 from 1 pm to 5 pm. A funeral mass will be celebrated at St Martin de Porres Parish, 4179 Lawrence Ave East, Scarborough on Saturday, February 24, 2024 at 11:30 am. Interment to follow at Pine Hills Cemetery, 625 Birchmount Rd, Scarborough.
Specifically expressed by Sheila, in lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Catholic Missions in Canada, 201-1155 Yonge Street, Toronto. 1-866-937-2642.
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