Brenda Lou Skalsky

Brenda Lou Skalsky, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away on August 2, 2025, in Worcester, Massachusetts, at the age of 64. Born on November 21, 1960, in Waterloo, Iowa, Brenda led a life characterized by her unwavering love for her family, her commitment to her profession, and her deep faith.

With over 30 years dedicated to nursing and more than 35 years contributing to her aunts' cleaning company, Brenda’s work ethic was commendable. She was not just a caretaker by profession; she was a nurturer at heart. Brenda believed in the importance of creating a warm, welcoming environment for everyone around her. Her compassion and kindness left an indelible mark on the lives she touched.

Brenda cherished every moment spent with her two daughters, Ashley Schellhorn-Mendez and Harley Schellhorn, along with her grandchildren, Francisco, Herlinda, Mario Junior, and Mariana Schellhorn-Mendez. She found joy in her daughter's cooking and baking, always excited to taste Ashley's latest creations. Brenda devoted her life to instilling values of self-love and respect in her grandchildren, guiding them with the principles she held dear.

Her love for Christmas was renowned; every year, her home became a festive wonderland filled with decorations and trees in every room, beginning November 1st. Brenda had a penchant for collecting thimbles and snow globes, adding to the warmth of her home. In her leisure time, she enjoyed playing Bingo on her phone, coloring, cross-stitching, crocheting, and engaging in card games with family. Above all, her church, Elim Church in Framingham, Massachusetts, was her sanctuary—a place where her faith deepened, and her community thrived.

Brenda faced significant health challenges with remarkable strength, including her battle with leukemia and lung cancer. Despite these hardships, she remained a beacon of hope and resilience, demonstrating a fighting spirit that inspired those around her. Her faith in God's plan was unwavering, and she found solace in the words of Psalm 23, which she held close to her heart.

Brenda is survived by her daughters, Ashley Schellhorn-Mendez and Harley Schellhorn; her grandchildren, Francisco, Herlinda, Mario Junior, and Mariana Schellhorn-Mendez; her sons, Mario, Roberto Carlos, Denis, and Jamie Mendez; her grandsons, Eliab Arbey and Denis Esneyder Mendez; her stepsisters, Kathleen Skalsky and Amy Akhtar; her stepmother, Ellen Skalsky; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and close family friends, including the Nizeyimana and Niyonsaba families.

She was preceded in death by her father, Benjamin Franklin Skalsky; her mother, Joyce Van McCarroll; her sister, Patty Stimson; her brothers, Benjamin and Dennis Skalsky; her grandson, Mario Schellhorn-Mendez; and several other beloved relatives.

Brenda Lou Skalsky will be remembered for her warm spirit, creativity, and the unconditional love she had for her family and friends. She leaves behind a legacy of strength, compassion, and unwavering faith that will continue to inspire those who had the privilege of knowing her.