Berkeley has lost one of its most vibrant residents, Sally Sklar who passed away peacefully in her sleep on July 16, 2026 at the age of 88. Known for her indomitable spirit and compassionate nature Sally’s life was a testament to resilience and community engagement.
Born in 1938 in Philadelphia Sally’s early years were shaped by her close-knit family and the picturesque summers spent in Catasauqua Pennsylvania. Her academic prowess and determination led her to Philadelphia High School for Girls where she laid the foundation for her future endeavors.
An Academic and Professional Journey
Sally’s pursuit of knowledge was relentless. She worked her way through Temple University as a waitress, including a stint at the Hot Shoppe. It was during this time that she met her future husband, Bernard (Bernie) Sklar. They married in 1958 and embarked on a journey that would take them to Berkeley in 1962.
The Sklar family’s time in Berkeley was punctuated by two years at Fort Jackson, South Carolina and a year in England where they explored Europe. Sally’s academic achievements included a master’s degree in psychology from San Francisco State and a law degree from UC Law San Francisco (Hastings). Her legal career spanned contract reviews for the Navy family law, and disability advocacy.
A Mother, Swimmer, and Neighborhood Champion
Despite her demanding career, Sally was a devoted mother who instilled the values of hard work and perseverance in her children. She encouraged their participation in sports and was an active member of the Strawberry Canyon Aquatic Masters. Sally’s love for physical activity extended to her unique form of jogging, which she affectionately termed slogging.
Sally and Bernie shared a passion for travel, exploring countries across EuropeCanadaMexicoMoroccoIndiaThailand and Nepal. Their adventures often involved cycling and staying in budget accommodations, reflecting their adventurous spirits.
On Amador Avenue in Berkeley Sally was a driving force. She organized neighborhood parties and played a pivotal role in undergrounding the wires, preserving the street’s beautiful trees. Her home was a hub for friends and neighbors, known for her culinary skills, especially her Buche de Noel at Christmas.
Legacy and Remembrance
In her later years, Sally’s daily walks around the neighborhood became a cherished ritual. She would treat neighborhood dogs to rawhides and collect treasures like flowers, rocks, and books from local little libraries. During her final months, she resided at the Silverado Berkeley Senior Facility where the staff provided compassionate care.
Sally was preceded in death by her mother, Elizabeth (Betty) Keyser. She is survived by her husband of 68 years, Bernard Sklar her sister Luana Gordon her sons Paul (Mary Beth)Daniel and Brian (Wendy) her grandchildren MichaelJoshMadelineMax and Nicholas and her great-grandchildren Owen and Emilia.
In keeping with her wishes, Sally’s body will be used for medical and scientific research through the University of California San Francisco Willed Body Program. There will be no funeral service, but her legacy will forever be etched in the hearts of those who knew her and the community she loved.
