Irmgard "Irma" Maria Schwartz
Irmgard Maria “Irma” Schwartz passed away on September 15, 2026. Born on May 30, 1936, in Germany to Hedwig and Johann Schwarz, Irma’s early years were shaped by the hardships and uncertainty of World War II and the early passing of her mother when she was only a young child. Those experiences forged her resilience, her independence, and the quiet strength that defined her life.
As a young woman in Germany, Irma met and married Harold Schwartz, a Jewish American Air Force serviceman, from Richmond, Virginia. The similarity in last names is not a typo! Their life together spanned continents and cultures. In 1962 when Harold became ill and was airlifted to Texas, Irma bravely traveled to the United States alone with her two daughters, Sylvia and Hannah, beginning a new chapter in Richmond with her new American family. A few years later the family settled in Arlington, Virginia. Irma embraced her new country wholeheartedly. She became an American citizen and built a long career in men’s retail, working with dedication for over 30 years. Though tiny in stature at just 4 feet 11 inches, she carried herself with a presence and determination far larger than her height.
In 1974, Harold died at the young age of 35, leaving her to raise two 70’s era teenage girls on her own. We’d say she did a pretty good job. In 2000 she retired to Danville, Virginia.
Irma was predeceased by her parents and her husband. She is survived by her daughters Sylvia (Roy) Scott and Hannah Estep; her six grandchildren Sheri (Preston), Dane, Jaclyn (John), Cory, Brittany (Jon Paul), and Zach (Alyssa); and her eighteen great grandchildren Brooklyn, Eben, Rachel, Cole, Kathryn, Pyper, Reese, Nathan, Charlotte, Kohen, Michael, Ezra, Luke, Sutton, Gabria, Sawyer, Sam, and Liam. She is also survived by her sister Helma Hammerschmidt and her nephews.
Over the past twenty five years, Irma also found joy and companionship in her three dogs — Josie, Sparky, and GiGi — each one a treasured part of her life. They were her loyal companions, her comfort, and her daily delight. She also enjoyed her daily video chats with her sister and nephews in Germany.
Irma was a beloved mom, grandmother, and GiGi — the heart of a family that grew to include six grandchildren and eighteen great grandchildren. Her legacy lives on in each of them: in their stories, their laughter, and the strength she passed down through every generation.
A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Saturday, September 26, 2026, 11:00 a.m. at Norris Funeral Services, West End Chapel with Pastor JB Baldridge officiating. A visitation will be held prior to the service from 10:30 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. also at Norris Funeral Service, West End Chapel.
Norris Funeral Services and Crematory, Inc., West End Chapel, Danville, VA is serving the family.
