Stuart Orin Schmitt

Stuart (Stu) 0 Schmitt Mount Ida AR.- Stu Would like to let you know that his work here is done. On March 15, 2026. He received his last set of orders he could not refuse for an appointment from which he will not be returning. This appointment comes with great reward. His new mission takes him to a wonderful place where he will be Fishing, Flying, Dancing, Playing with Crystals, and sitting around a poker table having happy hour sharing love, laughter and memories with family and friends whom he has not seen in a long time.

We want him to know that he truly made the most of his time here on earth. He lived with generosity and love, giving far more than he received and leaving behind a legacy of joy and kindness. His bright smile, wise counsel, zest for life has filled our lives with unforgettable moments and cherished memories that will stay in our hearts forever.

Stu’s life took many turns. He was born in Muscatine, Iowa and raised in the small town of Nichols IA., where according to rumors he stirred up as much trouble as possible. He played Basketball, Baseball and even was a Cheerleader. He was Salutatorian of his class (His senior Class had 3 other students that year). He attended Iowa State university and joined ROTC program and received his Bachelors in Electrical Engineering. Immediately after Graduation married his wife of 61 years Sandra Daly. He joined the Navy, became a pilot and flew over 200 Missons in Vietnam. He retired as a Naval Captain as a Test Pilot and "Top GUN" F-14 Fighter Pilot with Thousands of flight hours and almost 1000 carrier landings. He has received many Medals Including the Distinguished Flying Cross. After retirement, he and his wife Sandy settled in Mount Ida AR. With new adventures he taught Avatar, became a Quartz Crystal Miner, Started Crystal business, Mastered Fishing, and Even managed to donate to the local Friday night poker games. He was a man who made an impression on many lives.

Thank you everybody who helped make his long journey so memorable.

Stu is survived by his wife Sandra Schmitt, sister Sandi Hyett, son Stuart (Chip) Schmitt along with many other family members and friends. He preceded in death by both of his parents, Ralph and Bea McMahon Schmitt.

We invite all his family and friends to his funeral service at Mountain Harbor East Pavilion 181 Clubhouse Drive Mount Ida, Arkansas, Monday, March 23rd, 2026, at 2pm with Father Joseph Shantiraj officiating.

Arrangements under the direction of Thornton Funeral Home in Mount Ida, Arkansas. Guest register at www.thortonfh.com