Shirley Schmidt

(From Midland Cremation Society)

Shirley Jean Schmidt was escorted to Heaven on July 11, 2026, where we know she was welcomed with open arms.

Shirley was born on July 31, 1938, in Stilwell, Oklahoma. When she was very young, her family moved to Clarksburg, California, where she graduated from high school in 1956.

She began her career as a legal secretary for Nathaniel Colley, a prominent attorney in Sacramento, California. In 1973, she moved to Neosho, Missouri, where she continued her career as a legal secretary for Prosecuting Attorney Steve Lampo. 

Later, Shirley followed her passion for cooking and hospitality by founding Foods Unlimited, her catering business, which she owned and operated until her retirement in 2024. Through her work, she brought people together and created lasting memories for countless families and friends.

Shirley was a proud member of the American Business Women's Association and gave generously of her time by volunteering at Freeman Neosho Hospital, the Community Blood Center of the Ozarks, and Teen Challenge.

Her faith was the foundation of her life. Shirley believed deeply in helping others, offering encouragement, and faithfully praying for those in need. She became known throughout the community as a "Prayer Warrior." Her compassion, kindness, and unwavering faith touched everyone she met. She truly was an angel on earth and was loved by all who knew her.

Shirley was married to the love of her life, Charles William "Bill" Schmidt. Together they raised three sons: Larry Fiscus (Nancy), Casey Schmidt, and Seann Schmidt. 

She is survived by her sons, Larry Fiscus (Nancy) and Casey Schmidt; her sisters, Mary Osolin (Dan) and Joanne Lewallen; her beloved grandchildren, Larra Erman (Jon), Joseph Fiscus (Hayley), Brittanne Fiscus, and David Fiscus; and her cherished great-grandchildren, August Erman, Arlis Erman, and Everleigh Fiscus.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Arless and Helen; her husband, Bill; and her son, Seann.

Nothing brought Shirley greater joy than her family. She treasured every moment spent with them, and her love, faith, and generous spirit will continue to live on through each of them.

A celebration of Shirley's life will be held at a later date. Her family invites all who knew and loved her to remember her by sharing kindness, offering a prayer for someone in need, and loving others as generously as she did.