Jerry L. Schmidt

Jerry L. Schmidt, the son of Glenn Harold and Flora Ellen (Sprague) Schmidt, was born July 8, 1938, in Des Moines, Iowa. He grew up on a farm southeast of Stuart, Iowa. Jerry graduated from Stuart Community School in 1956, where he developed his love for music, mathematics and science. He received his bachelor’s degree from Iowa State University in 1960, his master’s degree from Drake University in 1966, and his doctorate degree from the University of Arkansas in 1971. Jerry had a long teaching career while teaching mathematics and science at Laurens High school for eight years, mathematics at Newton High School for thirty years, and substitute teaching for over 10 years. He thoroughly enjoyed teaching while emphasizing the practical applications of mathematics and challenging his students to do their very best. Jerry was known to many of the students as Doc Schmidt. During many summer breaks, he could be found painting houses in Newton.

Jerry met the love of his life and future wife, Nan, and Okie, at the University of Arkansas, where she was teaching PE classes and coaching women’s basketball. During their 53 years of married life, Jerry and Nan could often be seen together riding bicycles and jogging or walking around Newton holding hands. They were very devoted to each other.

The Lord and First Baptist Church were a very important part of his life. He stayed very active teaching Sunday School, being on various boards, and as the church custodian for over 20 years. Jerry, at various times, could be found taking part in organizations such as Big Brothers-Big Sisters, RSVP, Project AWAKE, Jasper County Concert Association and the Newton City Band. Some of his favorite activities were listening to all types of music, getting together with special friends, gardening, tinkering with cars, remodeling their house, and playing his trumpet.

Jerry died Sunday, February 2, 2025, at Park Centre, Garden View. He was 86 years old. Jerry was preceded in death by his parents; and a grandson, Harry Schmidt.

Those left to honor Jerry’s memory include his wife, Nan; his son, Bryant (Amy) and their three children, Noah, Grace, and Ethan; his son, Jeff (Robyn) and their two children, Sam and Raelynn; his brother, Chuck (Darlene) Schmidt. They all held a very special place in his heart. Trips to see them or their coming to see him were always highlighted times in his life.

On Thursday, there will be a visitation where friends may great Jerry’s family at the Pence ~ Reese Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held at 2:30 p.m., Friday, February 7, 2025, at First Baptist Church in Newton, Iowa. A Facebook Live broadcast will begin at 2:30 p.m. on the funeral home Facebook page. Memorial donations may be designated to the Jasper County Conservation and may be left at the church or the funeral home.