Richard R. Schmidt

In Loving Memory of Richard Ralph Schmidt, PhD.

Dr. Richard Ralph Schmidt, PhD, born on March 28, 1944, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, peacefully passed away on September 26, 2023. He was the beloved son of Jeane and Robert Schmidt. Oldest of three children he is survived by his sister Susan and is preceded in death by his sister Sally.

Richard was an alumnus of the University of Wisconsin, where he pursued his undergraduate education, laying the foundation for a distinguished career in the medical field. Later, he continued his academic journey at the Medical College of Wisconsin, where he earned his PhD in Anatomy.

Richard dedicated his life to the pursuit of knowledge and medical education. He served as a distinguished professor at Sidney Kimmel Medical College at Thomas Jefferson University for an astounding 48 years. During his tenure, he held numerous significant roles, including the Vice Chairman of Educational Development in the Department of Pathology, Anatomy, and Cell Biology.

Richard passion for teaching and medical education was evident in his work and his interactions with students. Over his remarkable journey at SKMC, he touched the lives of more than 10,000 medical professionals, instilling in them not only knowledge but also a deep appreciation for the intricacies of the human body. His passion for nurturing the next generation of healthcare providers was unparalleled, and his impact on the medical field will be felt for generations to come.

Richard is survived by his loving wife, Dulcie Schmidt and his children: Allison and her husband Jon, Garrett and his wife Katie, Robert and his wife Ashley, and Ryan and his wife Lisa. His legacy lives on through his beloved grandchildren: Jack, Sofia, Elizabeth, Ella, Bryson, Joie, and Matthew.

In addition to his dedication to teaching, Richard had a deep passion for fishing, aviary photography and snowboarding, finding solace and inspiration in nature. He shared his love for these pursuits with his family, creating lasting memories together.

As we bid farewell to a remarkable teacher, mentor, and family man, we remember Richard Ralph Schmidt, PhD, not only for his academic achievements but also for the love, kindness, and wisdom he shared with all who had the privilege of knowing him. His legacy will continue to inspire and guide us, reminding us of the importance of lifelong learning and the impact one dedicated educator can have on the world.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, November 18, 2023, 10 AM at Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Dorrance H. Hamilton Building, Connelly Auditorium, 1001 Locust Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to JeffHOPE at Sidney Kimmel Medical College. Please donate at www.jefferson.edu/JeffHOPE (scroll down to Support JeffHOPE on the left), or make checks payable to Jefferson and note “Memorial-Dr. Richard Schmidt” in the memo line, and mail to: Jefferson Office of Institutional Advancement, 125 S. 9th St., Suite 600, Philadelphia, PA 19107.

Roses are red. Violets are blue. And the long thoracic nerve innervates the serratus anterior. - RRS

Arrangements by the FOSTER-WARNE FUNERAL HOME, Collingswood and Audubon, NJ.