Earlene C Schoonmaker

Earlene Schoonmaker, a lifelong resident of Circleville, NY, entered into eternal rest on July 14, 2025, at the age of 87. Born on September 5, 1937, in Middletown, she was the beloved daughter of Earl and Frances Christiana. Earlene graduated from Middletown High School and Orange County Community College. She dedicated many years of service to her community through her work at the Salvation Army in Middletown and in other volunteer efforts. Earlene's life was one of deep faith and devotion. She played an instrumental role in the founding of Harmony Baptist Church and Harmony Christian School, where she lovingly served in the church office for many years. Her steadfast faith, servant's heart, and gentle spirit touched all who knew her. She was predeceased by her beloved husband of 63 years, Gerald Schoonmaker, who passed away in 2019. Now reunited, they rest together in eternal peace.
Earlene is survived by her cherished children, Christine Malik (Kenneth) and Jeffrey Schoonmaker (Dawn); her dear sisters, Beverly Bayse and Joan Gruner (Thomas); and her foster children, whom she embraced as her own with unwavering love and guidance: Arthur Tester (Candi), Herbert Schmick (April), Thomas Schmick (Sonia), Barbara Kozykowski, Gerald Raymond, Ricky Raymond, Ronald Raymond (Rebekah), Susan VanBuren (David), Lucinda Mingey (William), and Al LaMarca.
She was also predeceased by three of her beloved foster children-Kevin Raymond, Carl Dorr, and Charlie Tester-who held a special place in her heart.
She is lovingly remembered by her many nieces, nephews, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, each of whom brought immense joy to her life.
A viewing and funeral service will be held on Friday, July 18th from 10am-1pm at Harmony Baptist Church in Middletown, NY, where family and friends are invited to gather and share memories, followed by a private funeral service for family at Circleville Cemetery. Flowers may be sent to Harmony Baptist Church at 1790 NY-211, Middletown, NY 10941 for the services, or, in lieu of flowers, those wishing to honor Earlene's life may do so by supporting the causes closest to her heart. Memorial contributions may be made in her memory to Harmony Baptist Church or Harmony Christian School in Middletown, NY 10941 - continuing the legacy of faith and service she so deeply cherished.