Obituary published on Legacy.com by Hedges-Scott-Millard Funeral Homes and Lake Memorial Gardens - Osage Beach on Feb. 10, 2026.
Opal Annette Schoemehl, known affectionately as Nee, earned her way into heaven on February 4, 2026, in
Osage Beach, Missouri. Born on May 21, 1941, in
Muskogee, Oklahoma. She was a devout Catholic and the matriarch of her family.
Nee was a member of the Catholic Church, where she was involved in various activities, including the jail ministry. Her commitment to her faith and community was evident in her selfless, kind, and generous nature. Nee was known for her loving, nurturing demeanor, and her disciplined approach to life, which was guided by her faith.
She is survived by her sons, Darren Donley, and his soulmate Pamela Williams, and Dewayne Donley, married to Ev Donley. Nee's partner in crime and beloved granddaughter, Allyson Perry (ne-Donley), married to Zach Perry, remains in this earthly life. Her family extends to her beloved granddogs, "The Three C's", Cameron, Cache, and Chance. Nee also leaves behind grandchildren David Donley (married to Lexi Donley), Matthew Donley, Lauren Tignor (married to Adam Tignor), and great-grandchildren Luke and Rosemary Tignor.
Nee was preceded in death by her husband, Fred H Schoemehl; parents, Lena Thompson and George Houston Thompson; her sisters, Vonda Bennert and Peggy Bilyeu; and her nephew, Jay Darrell Hood.
Nee improved the lives of so many around her and the following organizations were closest to her heart: Unbound, Hope House, CADV, Boystown, Our Lady of the Lake, Sacred Heart Catholic Church of Eldon, and St. Anthony's Catholic Church. She was a consistent supporter and donor of her granddaughter, Allyson's, Blessings Box. She was a devoted volunteer in the school system for many years, helping students and teachers alike wherever she could.
Nee most enjoyed spending time, whenever possible, communicating or being with Allyson and Matthew. Through the lives of her grandchildren, she found purpose in teaching and guiding them through life and its twists and turns. Her many trips through the years with Allyson will forever be remembered and cherished.
She felt especially blessed in recent years when her son, Darren, received a new term of life when he received a kidney transplant. Nee made the most of every moment that God blessed them with.
Nee's legacy of love, faith, and service will continue to inspire all who knew her. She will be remembered by her many friends and all of the lives that she touched. Her true grit and integrity are just a couple of the characteristics that we will carry on with us in her memory.
Isaiah 40:31: "But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint."
Arrangements are under the direction of Hedges-Scott-Millard Funeral Homes, 514 Hwy 42,
Osage Beach, MO (573) 348-3232. Condolences may be left online for the family at www.hedgesscottmillard.com.