Mary Lou Schmitt

After a long and slow decline with Alzheimer’s, Mary Lou Schmitt, 88, peacefully left her body on September 30, 2025, at 10:33 am at her daughter’s home in Greenville, SC surrounded by love. She was born in Pittsburgh, PA on October 5, 1936, to Louis and Marie Lippl of the South Side. She attended St. Michael’s High School where she graduated in 1954. She married Richard Schmitt on August 14, 1965, at St. Michael’s Church. Together they had two children, Diane Marie and David Richard.

Mary Lou was preceded in death by Rick, her husband of 59 years. Mary Lou is survived by her daughter, Diane McGowan, her son Dave Schmitt (Cindy), four grandchildren, Hannah Schademan (Zach), Morgan Schmitt (Carla), Molly McGowan, and Kelly McGowan, and one great granddaughter, Sophie Jo Schmitt.

Mary Lou’s career was spent in accounting and bookkeeping for various companies, including JC Penney.

Mary Lou was a fantastic dancer and she and Rick were always the first on the dance floor. Over the years, Mary Lou dabbled in a multitude of crafts from jewelry making to floral arrangements. Her happy place was the beach with the warm breeze on her face, and she enjoyed numerous cruises with Rick. She also enjoyed driving and was always the one behind the wheel on their road trips.

Mary Lou was a huge Elvis fan and enjoyed singing and “dancing” to his music until the end. As an animal lover, she also enjoyed her visits with the hospice service dog, Finn McCool.

There will be no service at this time. Memorial donations may be made in Mary Lou’s honor to:

Gentiva Hospice

750 Executive Drive

Greenville, SC 29615

864.232.4457