Phyllis Gardner Schmidt

Obituary for Phyllis Gardner Schmidt
Phyllis “Phyl” Gardner Schmidt, 87, most recently of Simpsonville, SC passed away on December 16, 2024, of natural causes. She is survived by her four children and spouses, 12 grandchildren, and five (and counting) great grandchildren.

Soon after graduation from Falls Church High School, Phyl married Robert “Bob” R. Schmidt in 1956, the man who would be the love of her life and life partner for the next 66 years. While Phyl had dreams of pursuing her college degree (and took many interesting courses such as Russian language), she ultimately decided to focus on raising a family. She was a deeply loving mother, tenacious in caring for her family.

Phyl and Bob raised their family in Blacksburg, Virginia for more than 20 years. Phyl was a master at canning produce raised in the wonderous family garden as well as participating in many community and university-based activities. The family moved from Blacksburg to Gainesville, Florida where Bob became a Graduate Research Professor in Microbiology and Phyl worked in the graduate school as Graduate Coordinator, helping many students find their way through the administrative maze and achieve their educational ambitions. Phyl was recognized and honored for her tireless commitment and dedication to helping the students and faculty. After Bob retired, they returned to Blacksburg, Virginia where they had their fondest memories.

Phyl was a gracious and welcoming hostess, holding many legendary faculty and gourmet club dinner parties. Her infectious laughter could often be heard ringing out above din and chatter of the boisterous guests. But Phyl wasn’t just comfortable at candlelit galas, she was equally at home in the woods tramping through forests, backpacking, and camping outdoors. Phyl spent many years as a Girl Scout leader and was affectionally known as “Chipmunk” to her scouts. Her life included travel, singing (she was a soprano), the arts (she even made her own ceramics), and literature. Phyl loved mystery and detective novels, and she had a passion for games and puzzles that she passed on to her children and grandchildren. Many summer nights were spent by the lake playing canasta by lantern light. Family jigsaw puzzles were a staple when everyone got together and Phyl continued to be an avid jigsaw puzzle builder for decades.

Phyl was always up for adventure, eating at a new restaurant and sharing her time and love with family and friends. She will be greatly missed.

Funeral services will be private.