Jane Louise Schmidt, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, passed away peacefully on November 29, 2024 in Lawrence, Kansas, surrounded by her loving family.
She was born on June 24, 1956 in Wichita, KS to Elton Schmidt and Elizabeth ‘Marie’ (Potter) Schmidt. Jane grew up in Emporia, Kansas with her 6 brothers and sisters. She attended Emporia State University where she majored in English and met and married the love of her life, Darrell Schmidt. Together they built a legacy of love and devotion that will endure in the hearts of all who knew her. Throughout the years, Darrell and Jane lived in Emporia, Kansas; Garden City, Kansas; Amarillo, Texas; West Point, Nebraska; Logansport, Indiana; and Lawrence, Kansas. No matter where they lived, she developed deep and lasting friendships. She consistently dedicated her life to her family and community, bringing warmth and kindness to everyone she encountered.
Jane was a proud and caring mother to her sons, Garrett and Michael. She welcomed her daughter-in-law, Misty into the family with open arms and treated her as one of her own. Her greatest joy were her grandchildren, who brought endless light and laughter into her life.
Known for her ability to bring people together, her unwavering loyalty, and her outgoing personality, Jane knew no stranger. She touched countless lives with her generous heart and warmth.
In her early years she excelled at music and creative writing, especially poetry. One of her poems was published in a national magazine. She loved shopping with her sisters, cooking, crafting, and golfing with her husband.
Jane will be deeply missed but lovingly remembered by her family, friends, and all who were fortunate enough to know her. Her memory will live on through the cherished moments she shared with those she held dear.
She is survived by her husband Darrell Schmidt, son Garrett Schmidt (Misty), son Michael Schmidt; grandchildren Julia Schmidt, Colin Schmidt, and Blake Schmidt; siblings Judy Schmidt Toms (Bill), Janet Schmidt Coleman (Roger), John Schmidt (Patsy), Jim Schmidt (Katherine), Jack Schmidt (Diane) and Tammy Turner Bruegger (Dan); and several nieces and nephews.
A celebration of Jane’s life will be held at River City Church in Lawrence, KS on Friday, December 20, 2024 at 2:00 pm.
Rest in peace, Jane. You will forever remain in our hearts.
