Linda Schmidt, 97, of Clinton, Oklahoma passed away peacefully with her daughters by her side on November 1st, 2020 at the River Valley Skilled Nursing and Rehab Center (formally Grace Living Center) in Clinton. She was born on November 15th, 1922 to Peter P and Katherine (Lettkeman) Sawatzky in Washita County.

Linda grew up on a farm just 5 miles S.E. of Clinton with a large family of 11 children. She enjoyed playing outside and climbing trees. The 4 girls also helped in the kitchen preparing meals for the large family.

Linda graduated from Oklahoma Bible Academy with a high school Bible Diploma. She met her lifelong husband, Irving Schmidt, at a church social at the Bergthal Church. Her brother Elmer was dating Irving’s sister Neva, so they set up a double date. Linda married Irving on September 14, 1941 at the Herold Mennonite Church just outside of Bessie, OK. To this union was born 3 daughters.

Linda was a member of the First Mennonite Church. She loved to listen to the music in church, the fellowship during Sunday School and the ladies quilting group.

Linda was an active member of AARP and the Senior Center quilting group. She was well known in the community for her gifts of caring and hospitality through baking cinnamon rolls and meeting people’s needs. Linda will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

Survivors include: Daughters: Joyce Archer & husband Kenneth of Clinton, OK, Joanie Quiring & husband Lynn of Branson, MO

Son-in-law: Jerry Shepard of Richland, OK Sister-in-law: Wanita Sawatzky of Cordell, OK 8 Grandchildren 15 Great-Grandchildren

3 Great-Great-Grandchildren. Many other family members and friends.

Preceded in death by her Parents: Peter and Katherine Sawatzky, Husband: Irving Schmidt, Daughter: Phyllis Shepard and Grandson: Rex Shepard

In Lieu of flowers donations can be made to Western Oklahoma Christian School or Grow CBA.

The Private Family Burial was held at 11:00 a.m., Friday, November 6, 2020 at the Clinton Cemetery.

The Celebration of Life was held at 2:00 p.m., Friday, November 6, 2020 at the First Mennonite Church Clinton, Oklahoma

Under the direction of Ray & Martha’s Funeral Home, Cordell, OK.