Melinda Schultz Obituary

Melinda K. Schultz
September 1, 1947 - September 26, 2023
It is with great sadness the family of Melinda K Schultz announces her sudden and unexpected death. Melinda's beauty, both inside and out, graced many lives throughout her 76 years with us. A beautiful woman deserves a beautiful story.

Melinda's story began on September 1, 1947, in Akron, Ohio. Born to SGT John and Mary Fleming, the young family called Akron home whenever Jack was deployed. They lived in Colorado Springs where they welcomed John R. Fleming. The family spent time in Germany where John would torment Melinda. Melinda eventually settled in as a lifelong, caring big sister. Their sporadic times spent with Mary's family in Akron were regarded fondly by Melinda. Trips back to her childhood home would bring stories of living with two then three boys, three adult women and one bathroom. Short on privacy, Melinda made the hall "cubby" her space. She watched Doris Day movies, commenting she learned a lot from movies and their stars. The Fleming family made the move to what would become Melinda's hometown, San Antonio. As a teen she enjoyed dancing and was current on the latest fashions. It is no surprise Melinda was a cheerleader at Cole High School, she continued cheering and encouraging others. Melinda created many fond memories there, remaining friends with many of her friends from Cole. She was an active Cole Alum, organizing several Cole reunions.


After graduation, Melinda was accepted into college. While attending Sam Houston State College in Huntsville, Texas, Melinda met the love of her life, Louis Schultz. They remained devoted to each other for over 57 years. They welcomed their only child, daughter, Sherlyn (Sherry) in 1967. After several moves, they settled in San Antonio in 1972. During this time, the Schultz family made life long friends. Throughout Sherry's early life, Melinda was an active Mom from homeroom parent to Girl Scout Troop Leader. While braving a severe storm while camping, Melinda's elegance continued to shine in makeshift rain gear. Melinda was known for always answering any call for help; whether a friend needed a ride, a family member needed a place to live, or a furry friend needed a home, one could count on Melinda.

Along with raising her daughter and supporting Louis' businesses, Melinda enjoyed spending time with extended family and friends. Louis' sister, Joyce Aiken, became her partner in crime spending time with their grandchildren and living life to the fullest. Melinda was far more than a cousin to Kim and Kitty; Melinda was a big sister, helping them out in her "Melinda way," finding humor and class in her resolutions, and plenty of great stories. Family and friends both felt spoiled by her generosity and kindness.

Melinda returned to college at the University of Texas at San Antonio where she earned a degree in Sociology in 1978. With her degree focusing on statistics and economics, Melinda worked at the San Antonio Chamber of Commerce as a Research Analyst in economic development. She became a member of AACOG and provided cost of living analysis for many years. She continued her volunteer work in addition to caring for her family.

Looking back on Melinda's involvement in the San Antonio community, it is incredible how many years of service she quietly dedicated her life to. Melinda served on SA Junior Forum for five decades. After graduating, she was an active member of UTSA Alumni Association serving on the board in the 1990's. She was member of Los Amigos and Los Alegradoresski clubs enjoying travel with Louis. She belonged to a wine club. Book club and a caregivers group. She was involved with and served as president of Friends of Hospice. She volunteered with military families and Fine arts Gardenia society. Melinda also donated to a number of local charities. Her generosity was extensive and greatly varied that putting together all the ways she contributed throughout her life would be a full page in the paper. From the Salvation Army for Girls to helping a stranger with vet bills for a rescued dog, Melinda gave herself in a caring word or check. Melinda's heart was always open to those in need and filled with a love rarely seen in this world.

Melinda leaves a void with her decades-long group, the Birthday Club; the laughter among these friends will help fill that void with memories of many wonderful times together and feel blessed to have her part of their lives. Melinda loved her time her friends; whether it was a trip to Europe or a zoom wine meeting, she was a delight. Boxes of old photos hold a past filled with laughter and joy – and flawless style.

Perhaps the deepest joy for Melinda aka Mimi were her three grandchildren and great-grandson. Mimi was a constant in Tanner, her oldest grandchild. Much of his life has been with his Mimi and Papa. Tanner prompted Melinda to think she had no idea grandkids were so great- she might have had more kids. Mimi always felt very lucky to spend the time she did with Tanner.

Mauri, Melinda's middle grand shares her heart. The genuine concern for others and their well-being combined with incredible shopping endurance made them perfect together. Melinda joked she loved that she finally got a girl that loved frilly things yet was not a delicate flower being a strong presence knowing what she liked.

Melinda's sense of style was part of her DNA as this trait is evident in her youngest grand, Lola. Melinda's family often said she came from a long line of strong, protective and outspoken women. Melinda brought her impeccable dress and social graces to these powerful traits resulting in a force that one cannot help but admire as a smile erupts. The "wrath of Melinda" threat, born out of her intense sense of protecting those she loved was both feared and wanted, depending which side you were on. Melinda made those around her feel the impossible was possible; and impeccably accessorized.

Melinda's love spilled over to her great-grandson, John (Jack) Pierce Stewart. She often requested that the young boy spend nights and insisted on seeing him constantly. Melinda made Jack a priority in her life, especially following the passing of her granddaughter-in-law, Veronica.

Melinda and Veronica would often spend hours chatting with glasses of wine in their hands and sharing clothes. The two of them were thick as thieves with the jokes of Melinda loving her granddaughter-in-law more than her actual grandson. In a cosmic coincidence, the two of them passed on the same day, three years apart.

Those who met Melinda were instantly struck by her beauty. Those who spent any time with her quickly learned her inner beauty exceeded her outward appearance. She will always be a loyal friend, a supportive family member and an endearing mom and grandmother.

Melinda was known for her commitments to the San Antonio community. But the dedication she showed caring for her husband Louis is one out of novels. Both spent years cherishing each other as they were each other's shelter in the storm. Their decades of companionship remained strong through trials and tribulations, only growing stronger following Louis' battle with dementia. Melinda spent many of her waking hours the past few years at the bedside of her husband ensuring he had the best care possible. They traveled the world together, filling moments with priceless memories of love and joy that will continue to echo throughout time.

May our tears be replaced with bittersweet memories of her laugh, her smile and her vibrant personality. She lived fully, loved fiercely and will be forever in our hearts.

For those who wish to honor her memory and generosity, the family requests donations be made to others making San Antonio their home through the support provided by RAICES R&P program, attn Anna Flores, 2511 N Loop 1604, suite 200, San Antonio, Tx, 78258 or to the San Antonio Humane Society.
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