Iris Lee Schmid

Iris Lee Galyean Schmid, age 83, of Gulfport, Mississippi passed away peacefully on July 10, 2026.

Born on December 19, 1942, in Port Sulphur, Louisiana, Iris was a proud native of St. Bernard Parish and had been a resident of the Mississippi Gulf Coast since 1976. She graduated from Chalmette High School with the Class of 1960.

While living in Dallas, Texas, Iris met the love of her life and soulmate, the late William C. "Bill" Schmid. Together they built a life centered on faith, family, and service to others.

Mrs. Schmid retired from the Army and Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES) after more than 30 years of dedicated service. Throughout her career, she was committed to supporting America's military members and their families, taking great pride in caring for those who served our country.

A devoted member of her community, Iris proudly served with the Patriot Guard Riders and was an active member of the Harrison Central High School Football Gridiron Club from 1987 to 1992. She was an enthusiastic fan of the New Orleans Saints and LSU athletics, never missing an opportunity to cheer on her favorite teams.

Above all, Iris was a loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend. She treasured time spent with her family and leaves behind a legacy of kindness, generosity, and unwavering devotion to those she loved.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, William C. "Bill" Schmid; her parents, Travis and Alta Mae Galyean; and the love they shared throughout their lives.

She is survived by her children: Butch Schmid (Terry) of Bethlehem, Georgia; Susie Nelson of Gulfport, Mississippi; and Bill Schmid (Gena) of Biloxi, Mississippi. She also leaves behind seven grandchildren, eleven great-grandchildren, her beloved dog, Jenny, two sisters, Gloria Elfert of Hammond, Louisiana, and Mary Sue Robertson (Bill) of Hammond, Louisiana, as well as numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and many dear friends who will miss her deeply.

The Schmid family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Gentiva Hospice of Biloxi and Steven Ruffin, for the exceptional care, compassion, and kindness he provided during Iris's final days.

Butch, Susan, and Bill are forever grateful to family member Raven, whose loving care, unwavering devotion, and countless sacrifices allowed Iris to remain at home during the last two years of her life as she was bedridden. Their compassion and selfless commitment were an immeasurable blessing to Iris and to the entire family.

Iris will be remembered for her servant's heart, her steadfast support of the military community, her fierce loyalty to her family and friends, and the warmth and laughter she brought to everyone who knew her. Her memory will live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know and love her.

Visitation will be on Thursday, July 16, 2026, from 6 – 8 pm at the Riemann Family Funeral Home, 11280 Three Rivers Road, Gulfport. The funeral service will be at 9 am Friday, July 17, 2026, in the funeral home chapel. Interment will be in Biloxi National Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Help fight Alzheimer's.