It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Shari Carleen Schmitt, age 79 of Kirtland, New Mexico on April 14, 2026. Shari was born in Farmington, New Mexico on July 15, 1946, to Carl Edward Schmitt and Norma Silbo Schmitt.

Shari attended the following schools: Texico Elementary School (1951-53), Texico, New Mexico, Grace B. Wilson elementary school (1953-57), Central Junior High School (1957-1960), and Central High School (1960-63) in Kirtland, New Mexico. Shari earned her BA in Elementary Education from Adams State College, Alamosa, Colorado in 1968 and her MA in Elementary Education from the University of New Mexico.

Shari taught elementary education (Kindergarten) for 33 years at the following schools: 2 years at Taos Elementary School in Taos, New Mexico, 1 year at Grace B. Wilson Elementary School in Kirtland, New Mexico, 22 years at Gonzales Elementary School, and 8 years at Turquoise Trail Elementary School in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Shari was awarded the Golden Apple for Elementary Education in 1998. Shari had special skills in teaching and helping all children, regardless of their background or difficulties. Shari along with 4 other teachers started the first charter school in New Mexico, Turquoise Elementary School.

Shari was a talented seamstress and enjoyed making costumes for countless kindergarteners for their school plays and other activities. Shari was also an accomplished quilter and made many beautiful and artistic quilts.

Shari was preceded in death by her parents Carl Edward Schmitt and Norma Silbo Schmitt.

Shari is survived by her brother Carl Gregory Schmitt, his wife Donna and son Jonathan.

Her memory is cherished by her brother Greg Schmitt, sister-in-law Donna Schmitt, nephew Jonathan Schmitt, as well as many cousins, fellow elementary school teachers, and friends.

A memorial celebrating Shari's life will be held at the home of Greg and Donna Schmitt at 358 CR 6100 in Kirtland, New Mexico. The date of the memorial has not been determined.