Edward Andrew Schmitt, Jr.

Edward A. Schmitt, Junior, 85, born June 7, 1939, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, August 28, 2024. A dedicated family man, patriot, and professional, Ed lived a life of service and achievement. He is survived by his beloved wife of 62 years, Mary Evans "Sissy" Schmitt, whom he met on her first Friday night at the University of Kentucky. They married on November 10, 1962, and their enduring partnership was a cornerstone of Ed's life. Throughout his life, Ed valued the unwavering support of his loving wife, letting others know that in life, "You can't do this alone."

Ed proudly served his country in the United States Air Force for nine years, rising to the rank of Major. He entered the Strategic Air Command (SAC) during the Cold War, after graduating from Eastern Kentucky State College where he earned a Bachelor's Degree in Mathematics and Physics.

Ed completed nuclear combat crew training and served as Missile Combat Crew Commander in the Titan II Nuclear Missile Program. As Commander, Ed played a critical role in maintaining the United States' nuclear deterrent during the Cold War, as the Titan II was an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM), capable of delivering a nuclear warhead over long distances with great precision within 30 minutes. Ed’s exceptional performance led to him being hand-selected for the Thor Program in California. While in the Air Force, Ed earned his master's degree in aerospace operations management from the University of Southern California. He later instructed new Air Force members in combat crew procedures at Vandenberg Air Force Base. 

After his military service, Ed worked in air pollution control, traveling to 43 countries. He then found his calling in insurance, becoming a broker. Known for his dedication, Ed treated clients with the care of "an old country doctor." He earned an MBA from the University of Louisville and was active in his Anchorage community for 50 years, serving on boards, volunteering at church, and leading Cub Scouts.

Ed was a devoted gardener; on Saturdays and Sundays, visitors would find him in his yard or garden at any time of day, tending to his plants and ensuring that not a single blade of grass was out of place. His pride in his garden was evident to all who visited, as he poured love and care into every flower and shrub, creating a sanctuary that reflected his nurturing spirit and brought joy to everyone around him.

In his passage to Heaven, Ed will be greeted by the familiar face of his daughter, Penny. Though parted for a time on Earth, their hearts are entwined once more in an eternal embrace. 

Ed was also preceded in death by his parents, Edward A. Schmitt, Sr. and Martha Fanette Schmitt.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Mary Evans "Sissy" Schmitt; his son, Schuyler "Sky" Hamilton Schmitt; granddaughters Claire Evans Schmitt and Meredith Snyder Hamilton Schmitt; and a lifetime of devoted friends.

Edward A. Schmitt, Junior will be remembered as a consummate Southern gentleman, dedicated to his friends and family. He will be profoundly missed, leaving a lasting impact on all who had the privilege of knowing him.

He will be buried in a private ceremony at Cave Hill Cemetery. A Celebration of Life Open House will be held on Sunday, September 22nd, from 2 to 4 p.m. at Owl Creek Country Club, located at 12400 N Osage Road, Anchorage, Kentucky 40223.

Memorial expressions of sympathy can be made to Hosparus Health or TKO Parkinson’s.

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