Mary Jeanne ZurSchmiede

Mary Jeanne ZurSchmiede, 88, Floyds Knobs, Indiana, passed away peacefully at her home of over 60 years on Monday, March 10, 2025. Born on June 21, 1936 to the late Richard W. and Ruth V. (Hoffman) Atkins, Mary Jeanne was wife of the late Adam H. ZurSchmiede and a graduate of the 1954 class of New Albany High School.

Mary Jeanne was a forward thinking and exceptional administrative assistant for both the Mary Anderson Center, Mt. St. Francis and Quality Community Services of Floyds Knobs.

She was gifted in the written word and could expressively draw upon her imagination to weave stories, write poetry, create art through paintings and weave a spell of magic upon all who crossed her path. She filled every room with her grace, poise and dignity.

Mary Jeanne could never quench her thirst for knowledge and adventure. Her travels took her to the ancient wonders of China, the vastness of Russia, the picturesque countrysides, cities and quaintest nooks of Europe, the Mediterranean and her much loved American West. Her spirit of curiosity and wonder never wavered. Her love of reading and thirst for knowledge was an ongoing passion. She loved politics and finance and was a successful stock market trader. Her intelligence and observations of the world around her made her successful throughout her life and a wonderful example to her children.

More than anything, Mary Jeanne was a loving, devoted and giving mother to her children and grandchildren. She was ever present in their lives, with her world-wise advice, support, and everlasting love. Additionally, she loved, beyond measure, nature and animals, especially birds. She could often be found walking her beloved paths at Mt. Saint Francis, digging in her beautiful gardens or talking to her beloved crows. She found the natural world around her to hold all the meaningful answers to life. Any problem could be solved with a reflective and thoughtful walk through the woods.

Mary Jeanne is survived by her children, Dana S. Murphy (Jack), Todd J. ZurSchmiede, Jacqueline L. Barr (Orville), and Matthew A. S. ZurSchmiede (Dana); sisters, Dolores Eveslage and Patricia Leuthart; grandchildren, Jacob (Jennifer) and Jared Murphy, Isaac (Kyla), Everette and Jeannine Barr, Kassie, Maisey and Brenner ZurSchmiede; and great granddaughter, Avia Murphy. Along with her parents, Mary Jeanne was preceded in death by her daughter, Lori Lee (ZurSchmiede) Gadd and her sister, Maxine Burke.

Cremation was chosen following Mary Jeanne’s wishes, and she will find her final resting place at Mt. Saint Francis in Floyds Knobs. A celebration of life will be held privately. Newcomer Cremations, Funerals & Receptions (3309 Ballard Lane, New Albany, IN) was entrusted with her care.

In lieu of flowers, it is requested that memorial contributions be made to the National Audubon Society or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

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