Virginia Schmidt

Virginia C. Schmidt, (76), of Sullivan, Illinois passed away on April 17, 2022, at home with her family after battling pancreatic cancer. Virginia was born on January 17, 1946, to Wilford and Lois Alber in Blue Hill, Nebraska. She married Mel Schmidt in 1965 and they raised two children, Jerry and Jennifer.

A graduate of Blue Hill High School in 1964, Virginia went on to complete her associate’s degree shortly after beginning her career as a teacher’s aide at Tremont Grade School, where she worked for 30 years. Virginia always offered a warm smile and a helping hand to students, teachers, staff, and parent volunteers throughout her many roles. She enjoyed her time working on projects for the teachers, chatting with the students in the cafeteria, and the days in the front office, where she supported her fellow staff. While living in Tremont, Virginia was a dedicated member of Tremont United Methodist Church, serving as communion steward and providing meals to new mothers and their families. Those who met her walked away with a brighter smile, a skip in their step, and a lasting impression--one of gratitude, goodwill, and generosity. 

Virginia will be remembered as a loving wife, mother, and grandmother whose kindness touched the lives of so many. Her time spent with her family remained dearest, whether she was planting tulips in time for spring showers, using the new binoculars to bird watch, or even dipping her delicate hand in the waters of the lakes of Illinois. As a lover of the great outdoors, she could be often spotted out on a bike ride, relaxing in the boat, or at a campsite, with a worn novel grasped in her palm. 

Virginia is predeceased by her parents. She is survived by her husband, Mel; her son, Jerry Schmidt (Shawn) of Decatur, Illinois; her daughter, Jennifer Hurwitz (Kyle) of Louisville, Kentucky; and her brothers, Gerald and Lynn Alber (Donna). Virginia is also survived by three beautiful grandchildren, Holly and Timothy Schmidt of Decatur, Illinois, and Ava Hurwitz of Louisville, Kentucky.

A celebration of life open house will be held at Davis-Oswald Funeral Home in Tremont, Illinois on Monday, April 25, from 4-7 pm. In lieu of flowers and gifts, donations can be made to Pancreatic Cancer Action Network at https://www.pancan.org/

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