Helen Skinas

Helen Skinas, beloved wife, mother, sister, and friend, peacefully passed away in her sleep the morning of April 25, 2023.  She was born on August 28, 1933 in Protoxeli, Greece to the late Dimitrios and Maria (Giouzeli) Rodas. In 1940, she and her family fled the country during World War II on the last Greek ship Nea Ellas and settled in New Jersey.  She and her husband Athanasios were married in 1953 and lived in a variety of places during his Air Force career.  Their tours of duty included Germany, Cheyenne, Arlington, TX and San Antonio, TX, and Tachikowa, Japan.  After visiting Santa Fe, they decided to retire there in the late 1980s.  Tom passed away in 2003 after they celebrated 50 years of marriage.

After joining the community of St. Elias the Prophet Greek Orthodox Church in Eldorado, Helen joined the choir and helped at the festivals in the pastry booths.  She especially enjoyed reading during the Lenten services and helping the new participants learn the hymns and responses.  She was a vibrant and welcoming woman who also volunteered at the Salvation Army for many years.  Even at 89 years old, Helen faithfully attended church and brought delicious meals for the Sunday potlucks.  After she sold the family home in 2021, she moved into Brookdale Assisted Living where she acquired even more friendships with her outgoing and positive personality.  

Helen is survived by her son Constantine (Connie) of Boulder, CO and daughter Maria of Santa Fe, sister Stamatoula, grandchildren Thomas (Libby), Jonathon, Melissa (Caleb) and great-grandchildren Cameron and Amelia as well as many friends and godchildren at the St. Elias community. We know that in our hearts Helen will rest among the Saints in paradise but those of us left behind will miss her very much.

Private funeral services will be read at St. Elias the Prophet Greek Orthodox Church, Calle Electra in Santa, Fe.   Interment will be in National Cemetery, Santa Fe at a later date.  Memorial gifts can be made to St. Elias the Prophet Greek Orthodox Church, 46 Calle Electra, Santa Fe, NM 87508.