Patricia Y. Schmidt

Patricia Yvonne Schmidt passed away peacefully on the afternoon of January 11, 2017, surrounded by her family. She was born in Rutland, Vermont, to Edward and Dorothy Martell, and spent her youth and early adult years in Vermont and Massachusetts. Even after more than 50 years in Pennsylvania, her affection for the beauty and serenity of Vermont endured.
Her love for the theatre began after attending Springfield College, where she met the love of her life, Emile O. Schmidt. They were married in 1958 and began a partnership that lasted for 53 years. After moving to Gettysburg, they founded the Gettysburg Summer Theater and over the course of four decades brought hundreds of plays to the Gettysburg community. She inspired and touched the lives of hundreds of students as actress in the summer theatres, mentor to Emile's college students, and director at Gettysburg Junior and Senior High School.
Patricia's charm and talent were eclipsed only by her generous and loving heart. Over the decades, first in Gettysburg and later in Carlisle, she volunteered her time and energy with numerous organizations and charities to help families and individuals who were less fortunate. Where there was a person who needed help, she gladly gave her time and her support.
Patricia was the light and love of those who knew her, most especially her family. She was predeceased by her husband Emile, and is survived by her children Kristine Filiaci and husband Peter, Jenni Shomaker and husband Matt, and Matthew Schmidt and wife Dina, and grandchildren Joshua, Jeffrey, Brian, Misha, Erik, and Rebecca.
Visitation will be held on Saturday, January 21, from 6:00–8:00 pm at Hoffman Funeral Home, 2020 W. Trindle Road, Carlisle, PA. Funeral services will be held on Sunday, January 22, at 2:00 pm at Second Presbyterian Church, 528 Garland Drive, Carlisle, PA. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Project Hope.