Linda J. Schmidt

Linda Jean (Ristan) Schmidt (born August 16, 1947) passed away peacefully on November 7, 2026. Born on the US Naval Base in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, and traveling the world as the daughter of a career Naval Officer - she attended 11 schools in 12 years (her high school prom was on the Eiffel Tower!)

Her longest home was in Massillon, Ohio with her family, who she loved fiercely. Married just short of 47 years, she is survived by her husband Steve, daughters Jessica (Jess) and Katherine (Katie), and grandson Logan Street.

A graduate of the University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing, she began her career in Philadelphia, PA. Her nursing career included working in public health, for a private surgeons’ office, and something she continued far after she let her licensure lapse (ask any of the bedside nurses she encountered and encouraged!) - nursing staff development.

She co-led Girl Scout Troop 215 for 13 years and co-directed Camp Lycopodia for 4 years, which she felt was her best job ever.

She volunteered so much of her time - with Church of the Lakes - its Chancel Choir, VBS - painting backdrops and dressing as the Story Lady, and working in the childcare kitchen. She was an active volunteer at her daughters’ schools, for Fields of Honor and voter registration drives.

She loved books, words, good food, nature, and music. She sang in the Sweet Adelines and A Chorus for a Cause. She was proud of this country and its flag, and a patriotic song could move her to tears.

Her love of friends and family and her sense of humor and wit remained until the end. There would never have been enough time.

In lieu of flowers, she made monthly donations to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital and would be thrilled if you would join her.

A memorial service is being held at Church of the Lakes at 5944 Fulton Dr NW, in Canton, OH 44718 on Saturday, November 21st. Calling hours begin at 10:00am and the service begins at 12:00pm.