Gwendolyn (Gwen) Laveta Schmitt, a beloved mother, sister, and friend, peacefully gained her Angel wings on April 11, 2024, at the age of 83, at St. Luke’s Memory Care Facility in Carthage, Missouri, while surrounded by her loved ones. Born on July 12, 1940, in the small town of Thayer, Kansas. Gwen lived a life full of love, laughter, and unwavering dedication to her family.

Throughout her life, Gwen worked as an ambitious and dedicated employee in the apparel industry, a job she embraced with diligence and pride. Her hard work and commitment were not only evident in her professional life but also in her role as a mother. She leaves behind a legacy of love and resilience, touching the lives of her 6 children: Kelly Cornell; Gregg (Kandi) Yockey; and Cheryl (Keith) Cole, all of Cassville, MO. Debbie (Don) Clapsaddle of Chanute, KS; Vicki (David) Leonard of Purdy, MO; and Cindy (Tim) Rohden of Clever, MO, 16 grandchildren, 42 great grandchildren, 10 great great-grandchildren, as well as her siblings Kathy (Pete) Dillman, Chanute, KS; Pam Lawrence, Webster, TX; Brian Hardin, Buffalo, KS; and Jimmy (Cathy) Hardin, Wichita, KS, numerous nieces and nephews, as well as her extended family and Caregivers at St. Luke’s Memory Care Facility.

Gwen had an avid passion for old time country music, Nascar (Mark Martin), KC Chiefs (Patrick Mahomes), reading (especially her Bible), crosswords puzzles, and word searches; but most of all, spending quality time with her loved ones.

Gwen’s memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. Her kindness and generosity were truly unmatched, and her presence will be deeply missed by her family and friends. As we mourn her passing, we find solace in the countless memories we shared with her.

A private grave side service will be held at a later date for immediate family only. The family ask in Lieu of flowers, that donations be made to the Alzheimer’s foundation at www.act.alz.org or to St Luke’s Memory Care, Carthage, MO.

In this time of sorrow, may we find comfort in the memories we shared with Gwen and the love she so generously gave to us all. Though she may be physically absent, her spirit will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and cherished her. Rest in peace, dear Gwen.

Gwen was preceded in death by: Frank D. Schmitt, Jr(husband); Dorothy Hardin (mother), Zelda Anderson (sister), Larry Anderson (brother), two grandsons and two great grandchildren.