Nancy Skinner

Bolton, MA

Nancy Dickerman (Root) Skinner, 92, of Bolton, MA. b. 11 Aug. 1932, d. 6 Feb. 2025; Born and raised in Hamden, CT, from a line of Yankees dating back to the 1600s. 

Nancy put herself through college at Mary Washington in Virginia, where she earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology. She moved back to New England to earn her Master’s Degree in Business from Radcliffe College at Harvard University. Nancy went on to work for Raytheon, and it was there that she met her husband Robert (Bob) Skinner Jr. In 1961 they moved to Bolton, where they raised a family and founded R.W. Skinner Inc. (now Bonhams Skinner), which grew to be the fourth largest antique auction house in the country. 

Nancy worked at the business and raised her three daughters, cooking a full family dinner every night without fail. Bob died suddenly in 1984, but through her profound grief Nancy continued to run the business and raise her family. 

Nancy served on many Boards of Directors over the years including the Worcester Art Museum, The Botanic Garden at Tower Hill, and Fruitlands Museum. Nancy was committed to her family and church and was fiercely independent. She rarely asked for help, never threw anything out, and hated to spend money. Nancy was beloved by friends and community for her kindness. She shared her love of nature, art and classical music with those around her. 

She leaves behind three daughters, Sandra Skinner (Tim Hacsi), Linda Skinner Austin (John) and Karen [Skipper] Skinner, and a sister Dorothy Pope. She is predeceased by her husband and her sister Joyce Laubach. Nancy also leaves behind four beloved grandchildren, Alida, Lillian, Anna and Jonathan, as well as many other family members and friends who will miss her dearly. 

A service will be held on Saturday, February 15 at 11 AM, at The First Parish of Bolton, 673 Main St., Bolton, MA. Tighe Hamilton Regional Funeral Home, 50 Central Street, Hudson, MA is honored to be assisting family with arrangements. 

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to Shelburne Farms, Shelburne VT., or The Greater Boston Food Bank, Boston MA.