Ruth Ann “Smokey” Schmitt, age 88 of Keyesport, passed away on Tuesday, September 2, 2025, at Evercare of Breese.
Mrs. Schmitt was born in Carlyle, Illinois, on August 8, 1937, a daughter of the late John H. and Cecelia (Etter) Sautman. She married Carroll Dean “Smitty” Schmitt on July 26, 1958, and he preceded her in death on November 29, 2014.
Ruth is survived by her 2 sons, Michael Schmitt and wife Jeannie, and Mark Schmitt and wife Kristen; 4 grandchildren, Madison Schmitt and fiancé Peyton, Jonathan Schmitt, Hunter Schmitt, and Mason Schmitt; a sister-in-law, Della Sautman; a brother-in-law, Bob Coers; and several nieces and nephews.
In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by a brother, John “Don” Sautman, and a sister, Marilyn Coers.
Smokey attended school at St. Mary’s in Carlyle and was a member of the first graduating class of Mater Dei Catholic High School. She worked at the Carlyle Store and later in the office at the shoe factory until her marriage. She and Carroll spent a year living in Joliet before moving back to Keyesport. She worked at the Vandalia Correctional Center for 11 years, then stayed home to raise her children. Carroll and Ruth owned and operated Green Acres Campground for over 50 years.
A Funeral service will be held at Zieren Funeral Home, 1111 Clinton Street, Carlyle, IL, on Sunday, September 7, 2025, at 4:00 PM, with Deacon John Hempen officiating. Interment will follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Carlyle. Visitation will be held at Zieren Funeral Home on Sunday from 3:00 to 4:00 PM prior to the service.
In lieu of flowers and other gifts, the family suggests expressions of sympathy in memory of Mrs. Schmitt to St. Mary’s Cemetery, St. Teresa (Marydale) Church, or to the Keyesport Fire Department. Donations will be received through Zieren Funeral Home. Online condolences can be shared by visiting www.ZierenFuneralHome.com.
