Mary Skinner Memorial

May 9, 2009

For a woman who was a steadfast advocate for children, who fought tirelessly to improve her community, and who volunteered on more boards and councils than anyone can count – it’s hard to believe that Mary Skinner is no longer with us.

When Mary asked me to say a few words in celebration of her life, I said I would be honored.

Mary’s priorities in the Legislature were always clear – children, neighbors, the communities we live in – Mary had a passion and skill that we all respected.

We all considered Mary a skilled legislator. But more importantly – a friend.

It’s no surprise that Mary wanted to wait until after the legislative session wrapped up to celebrate her life. She always enjoyed huge celebrations.

In fact, a couple of years ago – when I was doing everything I could to forget my 60th birthday – Mary just couldn’t let it go.

The multi-tasker that she was – she managed to pull together a birthday celebration in the middle of a legislative session! She put partisanship aside – and invited every woman who was serving in the Legislature at that time so we could join together, relax a little, and laugh.

That was Mary – always working, and always celebrating.

And always so thoughtful.

When our dog Franz died – it was a real tough time for me and my family. In the middle of everything else going on in her life – Mary took the time to send us a beautiful azalea bush to remember him by. Our family planted it – this is the first year that the azalea has been in full bloom.

We now look at that gorgeous plant in our yard… and remember Mary – full of life and full of beauty. That is exactly how she’d want us to remember her…

And, of course, if you knew Mary – you knew Harlow. What an amazing team. Harlow was a dedicated doctor – whose devotion to his patients was outweighed only by his devotion to Mary.

Harlow was a powerful influence behind the scenes. Without his support, Mary’s accomplishments would have been far fewer. We owe Harlow as much thanks as we do Mary.

We all view Mary’s death as a tremendous loss. But I want to remember the valuable gains she brought to this community which created an incredible legacy.

First – what an inspirational story she leaves us. Sixty years ago, who would have imagined that a child born to migrant workers would someday serve in our state’s House of Representatives? What an incredible example of what hard work and determination can lead to – and I hope her story is told to our children, our grandchildren, and the generations to follow.

But Mary’s story didn’t end when she joined the Legislature. That was really just the beginning.

Drive through Yakima and you’ll see the countless results of Mary’s hard work.

A revitalized downtown, a restored Capitol Theater, not to mention the children who are safer because of legislation she spearheaded.

Mike and I join all of you in celebrating the life, contributions and legacy of our own Mary Skinner.