Lavina Jean Skinner

Lavina Jean Skinner (Babs) passed away on January 31st, 2025, in Belding, Michigan. She was born on August 5, 1940. Lavina had a rich and rewarding life & career; she graduated from Harbor Springs high school & attended Traverse City Beauty School. Her career started as a beautician/cosmetologist before moving on to work at Wolverine, where she made leather soles for shoes.

She found another passion in education, serving as a reading teacher, sunday school teacher and working in adult foster care, roles that allowed her to make a significant impact on many lives.

Lavina was an avid reader throughout her life, particularly of history books, and enjoyed various crafts including crocheting, knitting, and making her own clothes. She also had a green thumb, which was evident in her beautiful garden. Music brought joy to her life, especially southern gospel, hymns, and polka music. Her role as a Sunday School teacher was a testament to her commitment to nurturing and guiding others.

Lavina cherished her family deeply. She is survived by her sister, Merilee (Douglas) Sprague; her children, Renee Skinner and Vicki (Jim) Knighten; and her grandchildren, Andrea Collins and Kaitlyn Skinner. Lavina's role as a sister, aunt, and daughter-in-law was filled with love, and she shared a special bond with her many cousins, family and grandparents during her upbringing. She was preceded in death by her father, James Babcock; mother, Emily Ballou(Babcock); husband, Jerry (Skip) Skinner; and son, Jay.

A Celebration of Life for Lavina will be announced to her family & friends, at a later date. In memory of her love for reading, donations of books or cash in her name, to your local library would be greatly appreciated, continuing her legacy of fostering education and love for reading.