Obituary: Gail A. Skolsky

Gail A. Skolsky passed away peacefully, surrounded by the love of her family in Atlanta on Monday, Sept. 14.

She was born on April 9, 1942, in The Bronx, N.Y., and grew up in Sheepshead Bay, Brooklyn, with her loving parents and brother. She attended James Madison High School and graduated from Buffalo University, later earning her master’s in special education from NYU. In 1964, she married David, and together they created a nurturing home with their three daughters in New City, N.Y. Gail was deeply involved in her community and synagogue. She established successful art programs at Venture Inn, a residential program for adults with special needs.

Gail later became the HR director at Love Stores — a health and beauty aid chain in New York City. In 2001, Gail followed her daughters to Atlanta and her passion for teaching full-time resurfaced. She became a beloved educator at Greenfield Hebrew Academy (now Atlanta Jewish Academy). Her positive impact on young children and their families continues to be felt more than 20 years later.

Gail was preceded in death by her parents, Benjamin and Miriam (Koppelman) Sandlofer; her brother, Michael Ira Sandlofer, and David Skolsky.

Gail is survived by her three daughters: Lauren (Laurie Foster), Robin (Mesha Rebac), and Randi (Billy Steuer) and her four cherished granddaughters — Brooke, Marley, Lindsay, and Jamie — who were her shining stars.

A dedicated teacher, mentor, baker, knitter, treasured friend, and best mother, Gail was a vibrant presence. Known for her caring and generous warmth, she truly “never met a stranger.”

In recent years, as Frontal Temporal Dementia affected her ability to engage in her favorite activities, Gail found joy in the company of her family and exceptional caregivers, who became like family.

While her absence leaves a profound void, knowing she is at peace brings comfort to those who loved her.

Donations in Gail’s memory can be made to the Gail Skolsky Memorial Fund at The Powerful Project, https://www.powerfulproject.org/gail-sandlofer-skolsky-memorial-fund. Dressler’s Jewish Funeral Care, 770-451-4999.