Jessica Fay Schemel

July 1, 1945 – March 2, 2025

Jessica Fay Schemel, lovingly known as “Penny," passed away peacefully on March 2, 2025, in Sacramento, CA, at the age of 79. Born on July 1, 1945, in Maysville, KY, she built a life centered around love, family, and a warm, welcoming spirit.

Penny’s greatest joy in life was her family. She took immense pride in her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, always making sure they felt cherished. A natural hostess, she had a gift for bringing people together, whether through her incredible cooking and baking or simply by making everyone feel at home. She especially loved the holidays, with Christmas and the Fourth of July being her favorites. She found joy in cooking, crafting, and hosting festive gatherings filled with laughter, love, and delicious food.

She was a dedicated San Francisco Giants fan, cheering them on through every season. She was also a proud “softball grandma,” never missing a chance to support and encourage her grandkids from the sidelines.

Penny is survived by her devoted husband, William Schemel; her daughter, Julie Cain; her sons, John (Rose) Linn and Nathan (Shannon) Schemel; six beloved grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her former husband, W. Kurt Linn, with whom she shared a deep bond as co-parents. She was preceded in death by her son, James Linn.

She was the cherished daughter of the late Ruth and Jesse Penrod and the dear sister of Connie (Bob) Penny and the late John (Laurel) Penrod.

A celebration of Penny’s life will be held on March 16 at 1:00 PM at Harry A. Nauman & Son, 4041 Freeport Blvd, Sacramento, CA 95822.

Penny will be deeply missed but forever remembered for the love she shared, the traditions she created, and the joy she brought to those around her.