Gerald "Jerry" Ellis Schmidt

Gerald "Jerry" Ellis Schmidt Jr., 65, passed away peacefully on Friday, November 14th, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family. Jerry was born on June 27th, 1960, in Torrance, CA, and later moved to San Miguel, where he attended Paso Robles High School. A gifted athlete, he earned a football scholarship to Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. His team won the National Championship for their division in 1980. He was invited to play for the Dallas Cowboys in 1983. His professional career was brief, but he often reflected on how that path led him exactly where he was meant to be.



Following his football career, Jerry worked briefly at Porsche- Audi until a conversation with a customer changed the course of his life. Inspired by the man's career in commercial real estate, Jerry got his real estate license and dove headfirst into the industry. In 1989, he was recruited by Jerry Beaver to open a Santa Maria office for Beaver Free Corporation, later known as Pacifica Commercial Realty.



From the 1990s to today, Jerry became one of the Central Coast's most respected real estate professionals. His notable achievements include representing Hughes Aircraft Company in the sale of 75 acres on Betteravia Road; now home to corporate offices, residential, retail, and the Santa Maria Police Department. He also represented Texaco in the sale of more than 100 acres of land that became a residential community of over 1,000 homes near Blosser Road. He played a key role in bringing Golden State Porcelain to the Columbia Business Center and successfully sold the adjacent former Costco warehouse- twice.



In 2006, Jerry and his partners purchased Pacifica Commercial Realty's Santa Maria operations and later acquired the firm's original Santa Barbara brokerage. As Pacifica's Broker of Record and President, he led Pacifica's continued growth from its Santa Maria headquarters to its permanent home on South Bradley Road, the former Hometown Buffet.



In addition to brokerage, Jerry brought property management to Pacifica Commercial Realty. Pacifica currently manages over a million square feet of property and continues to grow with the help of an incredible team, including his daughter Sara.



Jerry left a lasting impact on the area he loved through business, but also by giving back to his community. Jerry joined the Police Academy in 2003, where he graduated as Valedictorian. He served as a part time reserve officer and armorer with the Santa Maria Police Department for over 10 years. He sat on the original Police Council Board of Directors in 2007 and was president of the board 2013 and 2015. The Santa Maria Police Council Golf Tournament and Comedy Show was one of his passions that continues to raise money for the Police Department annually.



Jerry's greatest joy was his family. He is survived by his devoted wife, Stephanie, his children, Sara, Danielle and Joshua; son- in-laws Joseph and Mike; his treasured grandchildren Michael, Luca and Ellis; Mother Nancy, and his siblings, Carol, Linda, James and Don. Jerry was an avid hunter and fiercely dedicated father who never missed a sports game, school event or church activity. His sharp wit and signature sarcasm brought laughter to those around him, and his love for attending concerts with his wife created memories that will be cherished forever.



Jerry's deep love for Jesus kept him grounded throughout his life and especially during his final battle. He fought the good fight with courage, faith and unwavering strength.



"Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go." – Joshua 1:9



A celebration of life will be held for Jerry at Calvary Chapel Santa Maria (2620 Santa Maria Way) on January 17th at 2:00 in the sanctuary.