Yvonne Mary Schulze

Vonnie was born and raised in England, close to Oxford. She attended public schools and after graduation from secondary school was employed by a large car firm as an accountant. She also worked part time as a server in an historic Oxford pub where she first met John in September 1969 where the romance started almost immediately. In December of 1969 they become engaged.

In February 1970 Vonnie and John married and their odyssey of fifty-five loving years began. Shortly after arriving in the US, Vonnie made the decision to continue her education by attending college where she majored in Psychology primarily because of her drive to help people. Due to John’s military obligations, Vonnie had to transfer to several colleges to obtain a degree. She finally graduated from college with over 150 hours of baccalaureate credit obtaining two B’s and the remainder A’s. During her academic career she was honored with the prestigious award of Colorado Scholar.

Vonnie realized her goal and dedicated her life to social work for the next forty years. Throughout her career she helped hundreds of people. From organizing volunteers to rake old pensioners’ leaves to obtaining Home Depot support to donate air conditioners to the needy. She also spear-headed efforts to gain low-cost electricity for those living at or below poverty level.

Vonnie wrote a proposal for a grant to the Robert Woods Johnson Foundation to better assist those with disabilities and was selected to receive a grant – one of only three selected nationwide.

During their lives together, Vonnie and John traveled extensively. They visited many countries from New Zealand and Australia to most European countries. They also visited many states from Hawaii to Maine. Maine so enthralled them that they purchased a cottage on a lake and enjoyed sharing the idyllic surroundings with family and friends.

Vonnie’s loves were gardening and quilting. She enrolled in and was awarded the title of North Carolina Master Gardener. She joined the Charlotte Quilters Guild and for many years enjoyed the comradery of being a member of a quilting bee. As an avid quilter she competed in many quilting shows and won many ribbons for her flawless executions. She never entered a quilt competition without receiving at least one ribbon for her quilts and often received multiple awards.

Vonnie’s tireless work in support of the needy changed lives and helped countless people live in dignity. Her efforts made the world a better place in which we live.

A Celebration of Life service is scheduled for 1pm on Saturday. March 8, 2025 in the chapel of McEwen Funeral Service – Pineville located at 10500 Park Road in Charlotte. All are invited to a reception following the service.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Vonnie’s name to the American Lung Association (www.lung.org) or the Animal Adoption League (www.mynextpet.com).