Lucille Joan Schwartz

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LUCY JOAN SCHWARTZ

DECEMBER 31, 1933-APRIL 21, 2023

Lucy Joan Johnson Schwartz passed away peacefully on April 21, 2023.   While our hearts are broken, we celebrate knowing that she is with Our Lord, her husband of 63 years Donald K Schwartz, and loved ones that went before her.

Lucy was born on December 31, 1933, in Duluth, Minnesota, where she lived until marriage.  Lucy was the oldest of four children born to humble and hard-working parents William and Josephine Johnson.   She remembered a childhood full of love and laughter.  Lucy spent much of her childhood at Bethany Lutheran Church where she sang in the choir and would later be married.  Upon graduating from high school, Lucy graduated from ST. LUKES SCHOOL OF NURSING in Duluth and began the first of two careers she felt passionate about.  Nursing, then Motherhood.

Lucy was introduced by a friend to Donald Schwartz, who had recently been honorably discharged from the United States Navy where he served aboard the USS WARINGTON.  Don wasted no time, as they dated and married within six months. Their family and careers grew quickly.    A move to Seattle began Don’s career with Boeing, Lucy’s career in nursing, and the birth of sons Daniel and Scott.  A transfer to Lancaster, California produced son David. A busy station wagon moved them all to Minot, ND, Titusville, FL and eventually Huntsville, AL.  Don and Lucy loved Huntsville and settled.  Don and Lucy were long time members of Covenant Presbyterian Church.

Lucy mastered two careers in her lifetime.  Lucy was a passionate, “old-school” nurse that believed in cutting no corners.  Her nursing career included general nursing, maternity, surgical and psychiatric.  Lucy retired from Crestwood Hospital after more than 30 years of service as head nurse of the addiction and mental illness unit where those suffering from addiction, eating disorders, and depression were treated with compassion and hope.  Lucy had a quiet ability to combine compassion and professionalism.  Retirement allowed Don and Lucy to travel to many parts of the World. Lucy enjoyed time with friends and neighbors, especially indulging her admitted fondness for shopping with longtime and beloved family friend Dot Stotser. (Lt. General George Stotser)

Lucy also mastered the career of Wife and Mother, her greatest passion.   Neighbors playfully teased Lucy for keeping her home and her children so clean. Her children remember the selfless efforts and loving dedication she had for them, not just as children but always until her passing.  The memories and acts of love she created for her family are endless and forever in our hearts.

Lucy’s love of family was boundless, which became apparent with the birth of her Grandchildren and Great-Grandchildren.  Lucy doted on Andrew (Melanie Gregg) and Luke (Alexandra) , born to Scott and Susan Schneider-Schwartz, as children and adults.   Creating memories and traditions for her Grandchildren was a priority to her. Anyone who came in contact with Lucy, whether she knew them or not, was subject to viewing pictures of her Grandchildren.  Our family is so grateful for the time Lucy was able to spend with Great-grandchildren Julia and Donovan (born to Andrew and Melanie), and that she was able to celebrate the joy and blessing of the pending arrival of Lucy Josephine, expected soon to Luke and Alex.  

Lucy dedicated her life to caring for and loving others.  She was a servant of our Lord Jesus Christ. She shared her husband’s love of our country, and the traditional beliefs of hard work, honesty, accountability, and purpose.  Lucy was blessed with many friends that she loved dearly.  To those friends that took time from your busy lives to call and visit Lucy these last few years, please know how very grateful she was for your kindness and companionship. It meant so much to her, and her family is so very thankful for all of you.  

Lucy was preceded in death by husband Donald K Schwartz, cherished parents William and Josephine Johnson, and brothers Kenneth and Lyle Johnson (Carolyn).  She is survived and celebrated by sons Daniel, Scott (Susan), and David; Grandsons Andrew Schwartz (Melanie Gregg) and children Julia and Donovan; Luke Schwartz (Alexandra) and the arrival soon of their daughter Lucy Josephine.  Also beloved brother Ronald P. Johnson (Diane) of Indian Wells, CA.; and cherished nieces and nephews.

Our Mother was a sweet, generous, compassionate, funny and hardworking person that loved her Lord, her family and her country more than herself.   We will miss her terribly and hold her love and values deep in our hearts as an example in these complex times that loving and listening to each other and not judging others can make a difference.   

The family is preparing a private burial at Maple Hill Cemetery.  Details will be announced regarding a celebration of the life of Lucy Schwartz.