Elaine Martin Schmidt

Elaine Martin Schmidt passed away peacefully on Friday, November 14th, 2025 surrounded by the love she spent her lifetime creating. Elaine leaves behind a legacy of creativity, courage, service, and loved ones who have been deeply shaped by her life and love.

Elaine was born in Lincolnton, GA, the daughter of Annie Penland Martin and Walter Clary Martin and sister of Annette Martin Freeman and Ed Martin.

Elaine was the proud wife of the late Dr. Don W. Schmidt, a dedicated physician, Navy Captain, and distinguished leader in the Lions Club community. The pair met at the University of Georgia and quickly fell in love. Elaine stood faithfully by his side, supporting his medical, military, and civic commitments throughout their 67 years of life together. The pair traveled extensively while Dr. Schmidt served as an International Director for the Lions club. As soon as women were allowed as members in Lions, Elaine was front and center as a member, officer and volunteer for projects within the Lions Club.

A woman of endless resilience and creativity, Elaine brought laughter and comfort to all who knew her. She was an avid gardener who found peace and beauty in nurturing the earth and watching life bloom. A lifelong learner, she approached each day with curiosity and determination, constantly seeking new ways to grow, understand, and serve. She returned to school while she was in her seventies, earning a degree in horticulture from North Metro Tech.

Elaine’s generous spirit was reflected in everything she did. She raised 3 beautiful children, served churches and community organizations in every place she lived, and inspired others at every turn. To her grandchildren, Elaine hung the moon and regularly created magic out of everyday objects, errands, and tasks. In her later years, she dedicated her artistic energy to meaningful service— crocheting lovingly made baby blankets and lap blankets for those in need, and crafting hand-colored prayers and scripture art that brought solace and inspiration to friends, family, and neighbors.

Elaine was a member of Hillside Methodist Church and was always bold in her faith and quick to share the message of Jesus with anyone around her.

Elaine is survived by her daughters, Lucy Sugg (Tommy) of Braselton, GA and Bonnie Rodgers (David) of St Stephen, SC. She has 4 grandchildren: Kyle Rodgers (Erin), Kimberly Hartman (Bruce), Caleb Rodgers (Codi), and Kelli Hitchman-Craig (Patrick). She was also “Grand-Nan” to seven great grandchildren: Makayla and Mason Hartman, Charlotte, Cason, Collins, Wesley, and Grace Rodgers.

She was preceded in death by her parents and siblings, her son, Don and her husband, Dr. Don W. Schmidt, with whom she shared a life rich in love, faith, service, and adventure.

Cherished family members and friends will forever treasure her loving heart, her gentle wisdom, and her joyful spirit.

A celebration of Elaine’s life will be held at Woodstock Funeral Home on January 10 at 12 noon with family visitation at 11 a.m.

The family requests no flowers, Donations can be made to the Hillside Methodist Church or the GA Lions Lighthouse.