Jean Schmidt

Schmidt, Jean D. (nee White)
Beloved Wife of 53 years to the late Robert J. Schmidt. Treasured Mother of Neal, Lisa Janson and Karen. Loving Grandmother of Mason Ping, Cameron, Lauren, Rylie and Tristan Schmidt. Devoted Sister to Donna Mancini (Nick), the late William White
Jr. and Sister in law Hannah White. Special Aunt to nephews William H. III. and Robert White, niece Debbie McDermott.

May 7, 2015, age 79 years. Resident of Milford. Memorials may be sent to the Humane Society of Adams Co., P.O. Box 245, West Union, OH. 45693 or the Elephant Manager's Association, 1513 Cambridge St., Houston, TX. 77030

Jean volunteered at the Cincinnati Zoo for 35+ years, where she developed many wonderful friendships and experienced great adventures. She was a passionate educator and had an extensive knowledge of animals. Jean was on many birth and behavior watches for multiple animals, including gorillas, okapis, rhinos and even an elephant.

She loved to travel and experience other cultures. An avid reader, she loved to further her knowledge on many subjects.

Jean devoted her life to her family and always put their needs ahead of her own. She encouraged her children and grandchildren to live life to the fullest, as she had done. We celebrate her life and cherish our many wonderful memories.

The following was written by her dear friend and college roommate, Suzy Cofer, and we'd like to share her beautiful words with you.

" Sometimes, if we all are lucky, we find a connection with someone that lasts a lifetime. That's the way I feel about your Mother. It has nothing to do with being physically together. Jean had that spark to savor life and make the most of it with her wit, tenaciousness, and curiosity. And in her final years she accepted her physical limitations with grace and tremendous courage. These remarkable people, your Mother, leave their mark on us and live in our hearts forever. And we are blessed to have been part of their life. May all of you feel the love of each other in this difficult time and make the most of your lives. This is what your Mother cherished."