Henry Edward Schmidt, Jr., 75, of Columbia, SC, died Friday, September 17, 2021. Born February 21, 1946, in St. Louis, Missouri, he was the son of the late Henry Edward Schmidt, Sr. and Mildred Elizabeth Garvin Schmidt.

Mr. Schmidt earned his bachelor's degree in secondary education from Southwest Missouri State and continued his studies at Drury College and College of the Ozarks. His love of teaching Social Studies and sponsoring school activities was reflected for more than 30 years at Fair Play and Hollister High Schools in Missouri. Mr. Schmidt actively encouraged his son and other youth interested in sports. For many years, he refereed high school basketball and umpired high school and college baseball. Mr. Schmidt was an avid sports fan, but especially loved his St. Louis Cardinals baseball team.

Survivors include his wife, Linda Schmidt of Columbia; son, Scott Schmidt of Columbia, SC; granddaughter, Morgan Schmidt of Columbia, SC; brother and sister-in-law, John and Patty Schmidt of Springfield, MO; former daughter-in-law, Shelley Fogel; and former daughter-in-law, Jacqueline Fox. In addition to his parents, Henry was preceded in death by his brother, Edward Schmidt.

Memorial services for Mr. Schmidt will be held privately.

"Never let the fear of striking out keep you from playing the game" ... Babe Ruth

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Hollister High School Athletics, 2112 State Highway BB, Hollister, MO, 65672.

Shives Funeral Home, Trenholm Road Chapel, is assisting the family.