Roll Call Tribute

Jackie Edward "Jack" Schmidt, COL USA (Ret) 

August 17, 1937 - July 14, 2024 

Jackie Edward “The Colonel” Schmidt passed away on July 14, 2024, at the age of 86 at his home in St. Augustine, Florida. Born on August 17, 1937, at Fort Monroe Army Base in Virginia, he led a distinguished life filled with service, family and passion.

“The Colonel” was a revered figure both in and out of military uniform. His career as an Infantry Officer included combat as an Airborne Ranger and Green Beret. He was a member of The Old Guard during President Kennedy's administration and served with honor in the “Rock of the Marne” 3rd Infantry Division and “The Big Red One” 1st Infantry Division. His favorite years in service were spent in Kitzingen, Germany where he commanded the 1st of the 15th Mechanized Infantry Battalion and later served as the Deputy Community Commander. His dedication continued in St. Augustine as the Senior Military Advisor to the Florida National Guard, a role that gave him immense satisfaction and a place to call home after retirement.

Jackie earned his Bachelor of Business administration degree from Texas A&M College in 1959. While attending TAMC, he was a member of A Engineers in the Fighting Texas Aggie Cadet Corps. Gig 'Em! He later earned an MBA from the University of Alabama. Roll Tide! He was a proud Aggie and a fervent supporter of the values instilled by both of his Alma Maters.

Family was central to “The Colonel” and the back bone of his life. In the last 40 years, the family was fortunate to get together for almost every birthday, holiday and notable events to celebrate. He was a devoted husband to his wife, Rosaria M. Schmidt and told her he loved her every day of their 64 years of marriage. He cherished time with his children Catherine Weber (Husband Michael) and Dr. Jack Schmidt (Wife Seymoine) and his Grandchildren, Michael Todd, Kendal, and Carson. Holidays like Christmas and Thanksgiving were monumental, highlighted by his legendary smoked Turkey...no fighting over the drumsticks please just bring extra to throw on the smoker!

His hobbies included fishing, where he aimed to catch “The BIG ONE”, a feat he achieved many times, including a memorable catch of Pacific Sailfish in Guatemala. Hanging in his den is an epic large mouth bass that he landed even though he fell out of the boat when he hooked it!

Golf was another passion, often playing at St. Johns County Golf course with his son and son-in-law. The Highlight match being the annual Turkey Day Classic with his Brother-in-law, Phillip Guerra, joining the group.

“The Colonel” is survived by his loving wife, Rose; children and their spouses; grandchildren; brother-in-law, Dr. Henry Butler; nephews King Butler and Colonel Charles Butler, US Air Force retired. He was preceded in death by his parents, Erwin and Lila Schmidt, brother Erwin Schmidt, and sister, Gail Butler.

A memorial service will be held at Craig Funeral Home in St. Augustine, Florida on August 3rd, 2024. Gathering will begin at 11:00 AM with the service at 12:00 noon. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Paws for Purple Hearts or Tail Waggers Foundation in St. Augustine, Florida. Craig Funeral Home is assisting with the arrangements, ensuring “The Colonel's“ legacy is honored appropriately.