In Loving Memory of Elizabeth Schmidt, affectionately known as "Susie," who was born on May 9, 1939, in Cincinnati, Ohio and was the cherished daughter of the late James and Elisabeth Milne. Susie passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on October 27, 2026, at the age of 87. She leaves behind a legacy of love, compassion, and unwavering support for her family and friends and will be missed dearly.

Susie was the beloved wife of 64 years to LeRoy "Lee" Schmidt, with whom she built a nurturing and supportive home filled with endless love. Together, they cultivated a family that thrived on connection, laughter, and compassion. Susie took immense pride in her role as a mother to her ten children: Gregory (Kris) Schmidt, Susan (Steve) Mechler, Margaret "Mugsy" (the late Tim) Hall, Eric "Bear" Schmidt, the late John Schmidt, Lisa (John) O'Rourke, and Elizabeth "Beth" (Denise) Schmidt, and Karl "Butch" (Nghia) Schmidt, and two foster children. A devoted grandmother, she adored her grandchildren Josh, Alex, Drew, Will, Kait, Ryan (Anya), Cameron, Eric II, Reiley (Sam), Jacob (Bell), Anna, Elias, Egan, Savannah, Karly, and Andrew and was eagerly anticipating the arrival of one great-grandchildren. Susie was the dear sister of Barbara Green and the late George R.A. Milne. She will forever hold a special place in the hearts of her family, and her memory will live on through stories filled with love and laughter.

Susie’s spirit touched many as she dedicated her life to nursing. She earned her master degree, traveled to China and Russia to teach nursing techniques, where she formed long time relationships with the local people, earned the Florence Nightingale award in Nursing, and served at St. James School, and Three River School District, where she found joy in caring for children and those in need. Her compassionate nature extended well beyond her profession; as she was one of the founding members for the STAY / Pathway to Home Foundation where she passionately advocated for pregnant and parenting teens. Her program provided support, resources, empowerment, and self -sufficiency that paved the way for a 90% success rate for keeping girls in school and graduating.

Susie’s kindness extended into her personal life, where she radiated joy through her involvement in the Red Hats organization, creating bonds of friendship and laughter among women in the community. In her earlier years, she embraced the thrill of horseback riding, indulging in the freedom it brought her. As the seasons of her life transitioned, she discovered comfort in quilting and sewing, pouring her creativity and warmth into every stitch. She hand made personalized quilts for all her children and grandchildren. She made pillows, blankets, and quilts for Bethany House, Lighthouse, and many others. Most of all, Susie cherished every moment spent with family, always present at their events and celebrations, creating a legacy of love and connection. Her life was a testament to the power of compassion, and her spirit will continue to inspire those who had the privilege of knowing her.

To honor Susie's remarkable life, family and friends will gather for a visitation at Otterbein Lebanon Senior Life Community, located at 585 OH-741, Lebanon, OH 45036 on Saturday, November 7, 2026, from 12:00 PM until the time of the funeral service at 3:00 PM. All are invited to come and share in the celebration of her life, reflecting on the love and joy she brought into the world.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial contributions be made to the STAY / Pathway to Home, 9141 Kilby Rd, Harrison, OH 45030, or the Cincinnati Association for the Blind, 2045 Gilbert Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45202, or to Otterbein Lebanon Senior Life Community, 585 OH-741, Lebanon, OH 45036, in Elizabeth's memory.

As we remember Elizabeth "Susie" Schmidt, let us carry her spirit of kindness, love, and compassion in our hearts and share her legacy through our actions. She will be deeply missed but never forgotten.