Thomas Jay Schmidt, a man for all seasons, was born on Sept. 24, 1935, to Eugenia Eischen Schmidt and Anthony Charles Schmidt. Tom was a warmhearted teacher, superb athlete, joyous musician, and fine craftsman. He loved his family and friends, and enjoyed greeting any person he met.
In his youth, Tom served in early morning funerals at St Matthews Church, studied the trumpet and played “Taps” for Military Veteran holidays and funerals. He grew up in East Syracuse, graduated from high school with academic success and social popularity, achieving letters in all sports. He was accepted into the education program at SUNY Cortland and named an All American Soccer Fullback. After two years of college, he entered the Marine Corps and was honorably discharged as a Corporal. Upon returning to SUNY Cortland, Tom earned his bachelor and master degrees. Soon after, he joined the Brigadiers’ Drum and Bugle Corps and played the flugelhorn. At that time, Tom also taught and coached at Liverpool Schools, where he met and married his lifelong sweetheart, Patricia Ruggiano Schmidt. When Tom received tenure at Liverpool, he was immediately offered a teaching position in the East Syracuse-Minoa Schools. Tom was pleased to return to his alma mater, especially since his mother had recently lost his father; he believed he could help her run their successful diner business. As a result, Tom and Patty moved to Fayetteville where their two sons were born. At that time, Tom studied the chromatic harmonica and soothed his baby boys with sweet tunes during their bedtime ritual. Ten years later, Tom and Patty decided to embark on country living, so their sons could appreciate the beauty and challenges of a natural setting.
In retirement, Tom had specific activities for each season. During spring and fall, Tom was an avid golfer. In summer, he went swimming in Erie Lake and winter saw him skiing at Labrador Mountain. No matter the season, Tom was an active member of the music ministry at Church. And in all seasons, he refereed soccer, lacrosse and basketball. Throughout the years of home ownership, he learned to repair almost any problems related to plumbing, painting, roofing, and household appliances. Additionally, he created and finished beautiful pieces of furniture for home, family and friends.
Suddenly and peacefully, in the early evening, on Sunday, October 8, Thomas Jay Schmidt passed. He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Patricia; his sons, Thomas Jr. (Nancy) and Anthony (Tiffani); grandchildren, Thomas, Gavin, and Maxwell, and his wonderful first and second cousins and extraordinary sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law. Finally, Thomas Jay Schmidt will be missed by numerous people who live in the Central New York Community,
A celebration of Tom’s life will occur on Saturday, Oct. 21, at 11 a.m., at Eaton Tubbs/Schepp Funeral Home in Fayetteville.
In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Le Moyne College Scholarship Fund, 1419 Salt Springs Road, Syracuse, NY 13214.
For guest book, please visit scheppfamily.com.
