Funeral services for John Raymond Schmidt, age 81, of Normandy, were held February 8, 2019, in the chapel of Doak-Howell Funeral Home with Pastor Jamie Pine officiating. Burial followed at Willow Mount Cemetery. Mr. Schmidt passed from this life Monday, February 4, 2019, at Community Care of Rutherford County.

Born July 26, 1937, in Brooklyn, New York, he was the son of the late Otto and Loretta Ozechowski McAuley Schmidt. Along with his parents he is preceded in death by: brother, Raymond John Schmidt; and sister, Caroline Waterson.

He was a legend in the TN Walking Horse community, known as one of the premier farriers in the industry for over 40 years. He was a lifelong motorcycle enthusiast with a special gift to make things run. He loved life and left everyone with a smile on their face and laughter in their hearts.

Survivors include: children; Penny (Jamie) Pine of MI, Mitch Schmidt of Nashville, Tammy (Lezara) Rogue of MI, Carol (Brigsley) VanNoort of IN, Dana Schmidt of Normandy, and John (Sally) Schmidt of Shelbyville; 19 grandchildren, 18 great grandchildren; sister, Loraine Taffat of FL, and many nieces and nephews.

Memorial donations may be made to Tennessee Walking Horse Museum @ P.O. Box 572 Wartrace, TN 37183 or tennesseewalkinghorsemuseum.org. The Scoop sends our thoughts and prayers to the Schmidt Family.