Obituary of Lila Skinner

Lila May "Dolly" Skinner, 94, died in Chico on Nov. 28, 2011. She was born Oct. 19, 1917 in Fort Bragg, CA, to James and Minnie Thornton. She grew up in College City (near Arbuckle) and skipped two grades in elementary school. She graduated from Corning High School at age 16. In school, she memorized many verses and poems that she remembered and recited into her '90's. On June 13 1938, she married Howard Skinner in Orland. They moved to Chico, where their son, James was born at Enloe Hospital on Feb. 19, 1940. Dolly was briefly employed as secretary of the First Baptist Church, and also at Storybook Nursery School prior to her career at the Meriam Library, Chico State University, where she enjoyed her position in the cataloging department. She was a member of the First Baptist Church, Chico, for more than 70 years, where she participated in women's work as chairman of a circle, was a member of the kitchen committee, and assisted with the annual bazaar and rummage sale. Dolly traveled extensively with two friends from the Merian Library. Their travels included, England, Portugal, Eastern Europe, China, and an Alaskan cruise. She was a 2,000 hour volunteer at the Chico Library, and received a 15 year pin as a volunteer at Enloe Hospital and with Enloe Hospice, completing her volunteering after 18 years. She had a delightful sense of humor, was an avid reader, enjoyed learning, and was also a serious bridge player, and enthusiastic pinochle and rummy player. Dolly was a warm-hearted, kind, thoughtful, positive, and helpful. Her Christian faith defined her life and inspired others. She lived at Sycamore Glen for 25 years, making friends and enjoying the social activities. More recently, she resided at Roses and Ivy Elder Care. She was preceded in death by her husband and son, and also her brother, William Thornton. She is survived by a niece, Katherine Graham of San Jose, CA, and her husband's great-niece, Rebecca Bovee of Red Bluff. A Memorial Service will be held on Monday, Dec. 5, 2011 at 1:30 p.m. at the First Baptist Church, 850 Palmetto Ave., Chico. Private burial will be held in Glen Oaks Cemetery. Memorial gifts may be made to the Chico Baptist Church, Chico Library, Enloe Hospital, or a favorite charity.