Donna G. Schmidt, age 85, of Bonne Terre MO passed away peacefully at Presbyterian Manor in Farmington on Friday August 8, 2025.
Born to John and Gertrude Brenon, she graduated from Bonne Terre high school in 1958, before attending Hickey Business School in St. Louis, where she mastered the art of being a secretary. Her career began at the Farmington Courthouse, and after some years as a stay-at-home mom, she served as church secretary at Centenary United Methodist church for quite a few years. She later worked as an admitting clerk at Jefferson Memorial Hospital, dedicating about 21 years there before her retirement in 2009.
She was preceded in death by her parents; brothers Leon (2019) and Jean (2025) Brenon, and her beloved husband of 45 years Robert Valentine Schmidt (2014). She is survived by her two children, Julie Storz of Farmington and Tim Schmidt of Kansas City; Granddaughters Trinity Storz of St. Louis and Chelsea Davis (Jordan) of Farmington; nieces Mindy Brinkhorst (Will) and Aimee Smith (Keith) of St. Louis and Gina Brenon of Bonne Terre; nephews Chris Brenon (Stephanie) of Farmington and Bruce Brenon of California, as well as many cherished great-nieces and nephews, cousins and dear friends.
Her life was filled with warmth, creativity, and generosity. She was known for her love of cooking and baking, especially her legendary homemade dinner rolls, a staple at every family holiday for decades, and her delicious cinnamon rolls that brought smiles to many. She had a talent for sewing, creating clothes for Julie and Tim when they were young, and took great joy in sharing her skills. She loved gathering with friends and family, whether playing cards, or simply spending time together.
She will be remembered for her kindness, dedication to her family, and the way she made everyone feel welcome at her table.
A celebration of life will be held on August 23rd at Centenary United Methodist Church in Bonne Terre, starting at 11:00am. Dinner to follow at the Cornerstone.
