Elizabeth Howard Schmidt

SCHMIDT, Elizabeth Howard, age 97, died on Wednesday, April 3rd. Born and raised Sarah Elizabeth Howard in Pulaski, Virginia, into a warm and nurturing household, she was surrounded by the love of her parents and three maiden aunts.

She attended college at the Richmond Polytechnic Institute (RPI) where she pursued her passion for fashion design, graduating in 1948 with a degree in fashion illustration. She later went on to earn a Master's degree in Art History in 1983 at V.C.U.

Family was at the heart of her life. She married Stuart Gray Schmidt in 1949 and lovingly raised three boys, Gray, Howard, and James, instilling in them the values of kindness and generosity that she embodied every day. Her career path led her to become the curator at Agecroft Hall in Richmond, Virginia, where she shared her passion for art and history with others. In addition to the Country Club of Virginia, she was also an active member of St. Stephen's Church, where her faith and compassion shone brightly. Her dedication to the Episcopal church was unwavering, and she supported its mission throughout her life.

An animal lover at heart, she found joy in the company of her many cats over the years, and she never walked past a dog without stopping to say hello. She cherished the companionship of her pets and was known for her kind and gentle treatment of all creatures, great and small.

She was deeply committed to education and social causes. She played a pivotal role in founding the New Community School and remained a steadfast supporter throughout her life, believing in the power of education to transform lives. Additionally, she was supportive of Planned Parenthood, women's rights, and a peaceful resolution to Middle Eastern strife.

Throughout her life, she embraced new experiences with zest and enthusiasm. Whether it was practicing yoga, horseback riding, playing tennis, or gracing the runway as a model for Thalhimers and Montaldos, she approached each endeavor with grace and determination.

Her forward-thinking spirit and forward-looking mindset were evident to all who knew her. She was ahead of her time, always emphasizing the importance of fitness and nutrition, long before it became mainstream.

Elizabeth was the charming and vivacious center of attention wherever she went. But perhaps her greatest legacy was her unwavering kindness and ability to make everyone feel welcomed and cherished. She made it her mission to befriend everyone she encountered, leaving a lasting impact on all who had the privilege of knowing her.

She leaves behind a legacy of love, compassion, and grace that will continue to inspire all those whose lives she touched. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who had the honor of knowing her.

She is survived by her three beloved sons, Gray (Sally), Howard, and James (DeAnn), who brought immeasurable joy to her life. Her legacy also lives on through her six grandchildren, Emma (Alexander), Lizzie, Alexandra (Andrew), Jack, Christy and Bailey and six great-grandchildren. The family is deeply grateful to the staff at Westminster Canterbury Richmond, for years of loving, capable, and compassionate care, most recently her caregivers at the Gables and Mary Morton Parsons Health Clinic.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to New Community School, Westminster Canterbury Richmond or St. Stephens Church in her memory.

A memorial service will be held at Westminster Canterbury Richmond on Thursday, April 25, 2024 at 1 p.m. bennettfuneralhomes.com.