Marilyn Schmidt

Marilyn Ann Schmidt, 84, of Longwood, Florida, passed away on January 8, 2023, surrounded by her family and friends.

Marilyn was born on July 19, 1938, to Ralph Gentile and Josephine (Switter) Gentile in New Haven, Connecticut. She grew up in Fairfield, Connecticut with two sisters, Carol and Virginia (Ginger). Marilyn maintained a very close relationship and bond with her sisters throughout her life. During her early years, she was very close to her extended family with whom she was supported and nurtured. She always remained loyal to her extended family and to her Italian-Polish heritage, and true to the Roman Catholic faith under which she had been raised.

In 1956, she met George K. Schmidt-a young US Army soldier, and they wed in 1958; and had two children, Christopher and Tracey. A military life would take her and her family to many locations across the United States and Europe. Across almost 65 years of marriage, she embraced the role of wife, mother, and homemaker as her early experience as a military wife shaped her purpose.

Marilyn dedicated her life to being a fantastic and wonderful mother to her children. She excelled at supporting them through the many passions and difficulties of their lives; providing the caring foundation that persists today. When her granddaughter, Emma, was born Marilyn re-dedicated her purpose to ensure that her granddaughter would receive the same loving care and support she provided Chris and Tracey. Marilyn reveled in the nickname Mimi, and she loved being a second grandmother to extended family's children and to neighbors' children.

Marilyn exemplified passion for her family and proved generous with her abilities to nourish the body and soul. She was an excellent cook and her sense of contemporary style and compassion brought joy to those with whom she interacted. She could often be seen behind the wheel of her sports car; enjoying a view at the beach; or visiting boutiques, markets, and shops looking for that perfect gift. Marilyn was convivial and could quickly make those she met for the first time feel part of her inner circle. She will be greatly missed.

Marilyn was predeceased by her father, Ralph Gentile; mother, Josephine Gentile; and sister, Carol Gentile. She is survived by her husband, George Schmidt; children, Christopher Schmidt and his spouse Christi Carver, and Tracey Schmidt and her spouse Nancy Schmidt; granddaughter, Emma Schmidt; sister, Ginger Kennedy and her spouse, John Kennedy and their children and spouses; and numerous grand-nieces and -nephews.

In lieu of contributions or flowers, the family asks for any donations to go to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.