Mary “Ginny” Schott passed away peacefully on February 22, 2026, surrounded by family and leaving behind a legacy of service — and a love story that spanned seven remarkable decades. She was the beloved wife of former Superintendent of Orange County Public Schools Jim Schott, and was the joyful heartbeat of her family and community.

Born in Indianapolis, Indiana, Ginny was educated in Catholic schools and carried her faith with her everywhere she went — not loudly, but faithfully, and with just the right touch of spunk. She attended Marian University before earning her degree from Indianapolis Business College. She began her professional career as an administrative assistant to thirteen medical engineers at Eli Lilly and Company — a role that required exceptional organizational skills.

Ginny married the love of her life, Jim, on August 11, 1962, after years of courtship. When she became pregnant with their first child, her career path shifted toward what she would confidently say was her most important job: that of wife and mother. Jim often described their marriage as a “70-year romance.” For Ginny, marriage was not simply a commitment — it was a partnership, an adventure, and an occasional reminder to Jim that she had already heard that joke.

Throughout Jim’s career in educational leadership, Ginny was his steady compass. She used her sharp mind and meticulous editing skills to help him write his doctorate in educational leadership — earning, by most accounts, an honorary degree in the process. She followed him faithfully through every chapter of his professional journey, spanning multiple states until they ultimately settled in Orlando, Florida. During his tenure with Orange County Public Schools, Ginny volunteered regularly in the library at Conway Middle School. In appreciation of her dedication, the school planted a tree in her honor — a fitting tribute to a woman who provided strength to so many.

Ginny’s heart for service extended far beyond school walls. She volunteered in the hospital, as a Girl Scout leader and alongside her husband with South Side Community Service Center, helping families in need of short-term financial assistance and essentials. She did not volunteer for recognition or applause; in fact, she would probably blush at the mention. She simply believed that if you could help, you should.

After the passing of her sister, Edith, Ginny stepped in to help raise her four nieces and nephews; Joe, Beth, John and Mary, offering love, stability, and life lessons. Later, when her daughter Cathy became a single mother, Ginny once again rolled up her sleeves to help raise her grandchildren. Caring for others was not something she did occasionally — it was simply who she was.

She made a transformative impact through her leadership with the Foundation Fighting Blindness. More than twenty years ago, Ginny and Jim helped plan and lead the very first Orlando VisionWalk. What began as a local effort grew into a national movement. Through Ginny’s tireless (and legendary) letter-writing campaigns to family, friends, and anyone who had ever borrowed a cup of sugar, she helped the Orlando VisionWalk raise over $2 million for sight-saving research. That spark has since contributed to more than $80 million in research funding nationwide, advancing treatments and restoring sight to hundreds of children and adults

Ginny was an extraordinary wife, mother, aunt and friend — an “all-star,” as Jim lovingly described her. She was her children's and grandchildren's biggest fan, proudly cheering at dance recitals and sporting events. She is survived by her daughters, Susi Martucci (Michael) and Cathy Timbrook (Gary); her five adored grandchildren: Nick, Christopher, Christy, Matthew and Emily; one precious great-grandchild, Georgia; and cherished in-laws, nieces, nephews and dear friends who love her deeply.

Her engaging personality drew friends wherever she went. She radiated kindness, generosity — and just enough sparkle to keep things interesting. She could help organize a fundraiser, host a holiday, comfort a friend, and gently correct your grammar, all before lunch. She was the quiet force behind so much good — a woman whose influence extended from her home to her community and beyond.

To Jim, she was a hero. To her family, she was their foundation. To the many whose lives were touched by her work in blindness research, she was the spark that began something life-changing.

Though she will be deeply missed at future VisionWalks and at the annual Winter Social she faithfully attended, her legacy lives on — in restored sight, and also in strengthened families, in trees planted, in letters written, and in the enduring love of those she leaves behind.

A funeral service and reception to honor and celebrate Ginny’s beautiful life will be held at Blessed Trinity Catholic Church in Orlando on April 17 at 11am. All are welcome! In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her name to Orlando VisionWalk, the Foundation Fighting Blindness, or Dogs, Inc.

A 70-year love affair does not end with goodbye. It simply changes addresses.  Arrangements are under the direction of Baldwin Brothers Funeral and Cremation Society, Orlando, FL.