SCHMIDT, Gerald “Jerry”, went to be with his Heavenly Father on January 24, 2021, at the age of 90. His first wife, Ruth, predeceased him after 50 years of marriage; and his parents, Alfred Luther Schmidt and Gladys Martin Schmidt. He is survived by his beloved wife, Sylvia; son, Mark Schmidt of Tampa, Fla.; sister, Marlene Sykes of Grantsboro, N.C.; and his brother, James H. Schmidt. As an Air Force intelligence officer, Jerry had an interesting life filled with travel, adventure and at times, intrigue. He served in Korea (1953) as a Chinese linguist, in Japan (1959-63), in S.E. Asia (1967-68) and in many minor temporary duty assignments in Africa, Europe, South Asia and the Middle East. His awards included the Bronze Star, two Joint Service Commendation medals and several campaign medals and various foreign awards, including a formal letter of commendation from the Japanese Air Force. His educational background included Omaha University, Yale, VCU and American University, as well as a summer at the University of Alexandria in Egypt. After retirement from the Air Force, Jerry became a professional numismatist and operated a rare coin business for 40 years. His new endeavor also involved considerable travel and adventure in search of rare coins and treasures. Travels included a 43-day train ride from London to Hong Kong across Europe, Siberia, Mongolia and China. Many trips were made to Europe and the Far East in search of merchandise for the business. Following its sale in 2007, he and his wife, Sylvia traveled extensively, cruising to Europe via Greenland and Iceland, also the Caribbean and the upper Amazon in Brazil. His final years, spent in the retirement community at Cedarfield, were quiet and enjoyable, playing bridge and engaging in some of the many activities afforded there and enjoying friendly relations with neighbors and the Cedarfield staff. Jerry is now enjoying his greatest adventure! The family will receive friends 2 to 4 p.m., Sunday, January 31 at Bliley's-Central, 3801 Augusta Ave. A funeral ceremony will be held 12:30 p.m. Monday, February 1, at Bethlehem Lutheran Church, 1100 W. Grace St. Interment will be private in Westhampton Memorial Park. If you plan to attend the funeral ceremony, you will need to pre-register by calling the church at 804-353-4413. The ceremony will be livestreamed and the link can be found at blileys.com. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Bethlehem Lutheran Church, 1100 W. Grace St., Richmond, Va. 23220 or the charity of your choice.