Jeannie Ann Schmidt

Jeannie Ann Schmidt

June 15, 1949 – January 18, 2026

Jeannie Ann Schmidt passed away peacefully on January 18, 2026, at the age of 76. She was born on June 15, 1949, in San Diego, California, to Howard George Washington Umland and Irene Patricia Umland (Kenyon).

Jeannie graduated from Kearny High School in San Diego in 1967. Despite contracting polio as a young child and enduring numerous surgeries throughout her life, she faced every challenge with resilience, determination, and grace.

Following high school, Jeannie attended Long Beach State University and later graduated from San Diego State University with a degree in Art History. In the 1970s, she moved to Spokane, Washington, with dreams of enjoying the Northwest lifestyle and spending time skiing. Soon after arriving, she began her career with Washington Water Power, now known as Avista Utilities, where she dedicated 33 years of service before retiring early to care for her husband.

On June 16, 1979, Jeannie married the love of her life, Lawrence Allen Schmidt. Together they shared nearly 35 years of marriage and built a life centered on family, friendship, and service to others. After Larry’s passing in 2014, Jeannie purchased a home in Post Falls, Idaho, where she enjoyed creating a welcoming community among neighbors and friends.

Jeannie was preceded in death by her husband, Larry Schmidt, and her parents, Howard and Irene Umland.

She is survived by her daughter, Kasey Kelley and husband Collin Kelley; her son, Brian Schmidt; grandsons Hudson, Brady, Julian, Tyler, and Wyatt; granddaughters Emile and Mya; her brother, Carl Umland and wife Ellen of San Diego, California; her sister, Helen

Walley of Santa Ana, California; and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

A talented quilter and seamstress, Jeannie lovingly created clothing and costumes for her children when they were young and spent countless hours sewing blankets and gifts for babies, grandchildren, family members, and friends. She was always willing to mend, fix, or create something special for someone she cared about.

Jeannie found joy in life’s simple pleasures. She was an avid collector of Snoopy memorabilia, enjoyed thrift store shopping, lunches with friends both old and new, British comedies, Hallmark movies, and visits with neighbors. In her later years, she treasured the companionship of her beloved cat, Carmen San Diego, and her miniature Goldendoodle, Dexter, who faithfully accompanied her on neighborhood walks and brought her daily laughter.

Family was the center of Jeannie’s life. She lovingly helped care for many of her grandchildren during their infant and toddler years, creating bonds and memories that will be cherished forever. She rarely missed a sporting event, band concert, school program, or activity, enthusiastically cheering from the sidelines whether she understood the game or not. Her home was a favorite gathering place, known for fun sleepovers and a dedicated drawer always stocked with suckers for visiting grandchildren. More than anything, her grandchildren knew they were deeply loved.

Most importantly, Jeannie was a woman of faith who loved God and lived her life with kindness, generosity, and quiet strength. Her legacy lives on through the family she cherished, the friendships she nurtured, and the many handmade treasures she created with love.

Though deeply missed, Jeannie leaves behind a lifetime of memories and a legacy of love that will continue for generations. Her family finds comfort in knowing she is reunited with Larry and celebrating her first heavenly birthday in the presence of her Lord and Savior.

A celebration of Jeannie’s life will be held on Saturday, July 25, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at 2739 N. Meyer. Family and friends are invited to attend and honor her memory. In keeping with Jeannie’s warm and joyful spirit, guests are encouraged to wear bright and happy colors.