Elk River, MN - Judith Skinner, née Griffin

Age 88 of Elk River, died on November 25.

Despite her decline with vascular dementia, Judy displayed the traits that many knew her by: her faith, her warmth and kindness, her sly sense of humor, and her love of her family.

Judy was born in Minneapolis to Richard and Mildred Griffin but later moved to St. Louis Park.

The school years here provided many good friends with whom she kept in touch over the years, but more importantly she met the 'love of her life' there, Dennis Skinner. She and Denny married and eventually settled in Coon Rapids where they raised their four children. They were active in Zion Lutheran Church, and this is where Judy later taught pre-k classes. Judy was loved and respected by those she taught alongside and also by the families of the children, not only for her work with the children, whom she adored, but because she brought so much joy and humor to what she did. After retirement, Judy and Denny moved to their lake home in McGregor where they immersed themselves into the church and community. Judy loved to volunteer and help others whenever she could. Later Judy moved to Aitkin and finally back to the cities. As an avid gardener, Judy lived the motto of "bloom where you are planted," always making new friends and providing a welcoming smile to others.

Some of the things Judy will be remembered for include her love of family get-togethers, especially 'at the lake.' She was the proud 'ringleader for adventures' with the grandkids, which included everything from 'grandma camp' to chasing down the runaway gingerbread man to fun times in Duluth paid for by the 'magic coin jar' along with countless others. Judy modeled grace, courage, and fortitude as she weathered life's challenges. She taught that living a life of faith and love meant being 'we people instead of me people.' She gifted all the family beautiful quilts created and stitched with much love, but more than these physical quilts, she stitched together a quilt of memories, and although her memories began to fray, we all grab hold of and cherish our special panels and fragments.

Judy was preceded in death by parents Richard and Mildred Griffin, aunt Doris Griffin, husband Dennis, brother Richard. She is survived by children Scott (Sue), Todd (Mary Jo), Kristen Gannon (Tom), Karen Fogarty (Emmett); grandchildren Ranee (Heather), Ryan, Rich, Tom (Jenna), Nate, John, Erin, Courtney, Jack, Luke, Emily; great-grandchild August.

A special thank you to the staff and residents of BeeHive Homes of Elk River for providing such wonderful friendships and care, and also to the nurses of Brighton Hospice, truly angels walking on this earth.

We are sad for what we have lost but are filled with gratitude for the time we had with her and her gift of joy. Respecting Judy's wish to not have any formal service, the family will privately celebrate her life at a later time.

Arrangements have been made through Dare's of Elk River. To leave kind words or share a favorite memory, please visit www.daresfuneralservice.com