Lora A. Schmidt

Lora A. Schmidt, age 96, a longtime resident of Northville, passed away on May 8, 2024. She was born on January 27, 1928 in Detroit, Michigan; daughter of Darius and Helen (Feldt) Angell. Lora was united in marriage to William E. Schmidt on November 21, 1964; they spent 51 years lovingly devoted to one another until his death on February 11, 2016.

Raised in Detroit, Lora graduated from Denby High School; class of 1945.  She continued her education earning a bachelor’s degree in fine arts from University of Michigan and a master’s degree from Wayne State University.

Lora had a distinguished teaching journey that began in the Detroit Public School system as an art teacher.  She later took a position as an elementary teacher with Plymouth Public Schools.  Ultimately retiring in 1990, Lora left a lasting impact on her students who adored her.

Lora had a deep devotion to the Lord and demonstrated unwavering faithfulness in everything she did.  An active member of St. Paul Lutheran Church in Northville since 1971, she sang in the choir, served on the Ladies Guild, and helped to transport shut ins to church on Sundays.

Lora was a talented artist and had a passion for painting both landscapes and portraits.  Each year she would hand draw a unique Christmas card depicting her daughters and eventually her grandchildren in various settings.  The cards were then printed and mailed to lucky recipients who treasured seeing how everyone grew over the past year.  Her eye for color and design spilled over into the beautiful gardens she organized and planted around her home.  Lora enjoyed sewing; she crafted her daughter’s clothes as well as drapery and other household wares with care and skill.  An adventurous traveler, she explored most of Europe and the UK.  Her heart found solace at her chalet nestled by Walloon Lake where her days were spent painting, tending to gardens, and the thrill of Morel mushroom hunting.  Lora delighted in the art of cooking, playing host, and creating cherished memories during holiday gatherings.  Blessed with a happy marriage, she found joy in caring for her husband and daughters; she truly cherished the time they spent together.

Lora is survived by her loving daughters, Katherine (Joel) Smart, Margaret Schmidt, and Jean (William) Peedle; and her grandchildren, Ty Schmidt, Brooke Peedle, and Jolie Smart.  She was preceded in death by her husband and her parents.

A time of gathering will be held in the Parish Hall at St. Paul Lutheran Church, 201 Elm Street, Northville from 12:30 p.m. until 1:30 p.m. before moving to the Sanctuary for a memorial service beginning at 1:30 p.m.  Pastor Christopher Fairbairn will officiate the service.  Lora will be laid to rest with her husband at Glen Eden Memorial Park in Livonia.

In lieu of flowers the family would appreciate memorial contributions to St. Paul Lutheran Church , 201 Elm Street, Northville, MI 48167.