Vicki Denise Schmidt

Vicki Denise Vandergrift Schmidt, beloved wife, mother, sister, and Mimi, born March 10, 1951, entered eternal life on October 8, 2026. Born and raised in Birmingham, Alabama, Vicki was the daughter of Ulmo Stanley “Buddy” Vandergrift and Pauline Scalco Vandergrift. She graduated from West End High School (1969) and later earned a Bachelor of Arts in Education from Troy University (1996).

Vicki is survived by her husband, John Schmidt; her sons, Chris (Diane), Tim, and Steve (Tiffani); her grandchildren, Caitlyn, Abigayle, Lily, Christian, and Ollie; her sister, Peggy Vandergrift; her niece, Sherry Schwellinger and sister-in-law Susan Murphy. She was preceded in death by her parents, Ulmo Stanley “Buddy” Vandergrift and Pauline Scalco Vandergrift, and her sister, LaNell Gaylor.

Vicki brought joy wherever she went. She could light up a room with her bright smile, her engaging spirit, infectious laughter, and love of life. She made every gathering more memorable. She lived fully in the moment, treasured adventures and travel, and had a special gift for making holidays magical. Creative by nature, she loved to design, make, and celebrate—always surrounded by friends and family.

For 54 years, Vicki and her husband John, built a life centered on love, family, service, and friendship. As a devoted Marine Corps wife (25 years), she moved wherever the Marine Corps sent their family and made each new place feel like home. She also served as a mentor to many wives of deployed Marines under John’s command. The bonds she formed along the way grew into lifelong friendships that remained dear to her throughout her life.

Vicki was wonderfully blessed to be a “boy mom.” She embraced all the sports, activities, the commotion, and the many antics of her three sons—often leading a few antics of her own. She was the rock of her family and loved them with her entire being. Her greatest joy was the life she shared with John, their three sons, and their five grandchildren, who knew her lovingly as Mimi.

Her Catholic faith was deeply important to her. She lived her life through faithful stewardship, service, and a sincere commitment to her church. She also loved her annual family pilgrimage to Craig Springs, VA hosted by Father John Williams. Her compassion extended to animals as well. Over the years, many rescues and strays found a loving home and her faithful pets brought great joy to her life.

A very special thank you to the “angels on earth” who provided amazing compassion & loving care to Vicki: LaKessha Smith, JaSonya Smith, Meunshay Stephens, and Janice Milton.

A Funeral Mass will be held at 10:00am on Monday, October 19, 2026, at Holy Spirit Catholic Church in Montgomery, with visitation one hour prior to the service in the Parish Hall. A private graveside service will follow at Alabama National Cemetery in Montevallo, Alabama.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites memorial donations to Alzheimer’s Association or charity of choice in her honor.  The staff of Green Hills Funeral Home is honored to serve the Schmidt family.