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Obituary: Sister Emilie Schmitt O.S.B.
A Life of Faith, Service, and Love
It is with heartfelt sadness that we announce the passing of Sister Emilie Schmitt O.S.B., a beloved Benedictine Sister of Sacred Heart Monastery in Cullman, Alabama. Sister Emilie passed away peacefully at the monastery on July 22, 2024, at the age of 99. She had served the Lord and her community with unwavering dedication for 75 years.
Early Life and Calling
Born Mary Gene Schmitt in 1925 in Eufaula, Alabama, Sister Emilie moved with her family to Gulfport, Mississippi, as a young child. It was there that she attended St. John the Evangelist School, where the Sisters of Mercy inspired her to pursue a life of religious service. However, it was the example of her three aunts, who were Benedictine Sisters, that ultimately led her to enter Sacred Heart Convent as a postulant in 1947.
A Legacy of Education
After completing her novitiate and making her First Profession in 1949, Sister Emilie took on the name Mary Emilie. She went on to earn an A.A. in elementary education from Sacred Heart College and an A.B. degree from St. Bernard College. Sister Emilie’s passion for teaching took her throughout the Diocese of Birmingham, where she served as a dedicated educator for over four decades.
Among her many teaching assignments, Sister Emilie held a special place in her heart for St. Paul’s and St. Margaret’s schools in Birmingham, and St. Joseph Regional School in Florence. At St. Margaret’s, she served as both Principal and House Superior, while at St. Paul’s, she had the opportunity to teach alongside one of her aunts, Sister Clare Kramer. In Florence, Sister Emilie spent 20 years teaching 1st grade, leaving an enduring legacy on her students and the entire parish community.
Retirement and Ministry
Upon retiring from teaching, Sister Emilie returned to Sacred Heart Monastery, where she continued to serve the community as sacristan and in the Retreat Center. She also found joy in crocheting baby blankets and creating “slippers” made from recycled Christmas cards, sharing her creations with children and bringing smiles to their faces.
A Faithful Heart
Sister Emilie was known throughout her life for her kindness, dedication, and unwavering faith. She was a source of comfort and support for her fellow Sisters, her family, and anyone who crossed her path. Her prayers were a constant source of support for those in need, and her cheerful disposition brought joy to all who knew her.
Legacy of Love
Sister Emilie’s passing leaves a void in the hearts of her Benedictine Sisters, her family, and the countless lives she touched throughout her long and remarkable life. She will be remembered for her unwavering dedication to God, her community, and her students. Her legacy of love and service will continue to inspire generations to come.
Funeral Arrangements
Reception of the Body with Vespers for the Faithful Departed will be prayed on Thursday, July 25, at 4:45 p.m. in Sacred Heart Monastery Chapel in Cullman, followed by visitation until 7 p.m. The Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, July 26, at 10:30 a.m., followed by interment in the monastery cemetery.
Memorial Contributions
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Benedictine Sisters of Cullman, AL, 916 Convent Rd., NE, Cullman, AL, 35055, or shmon.org/support-us.
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