Sunday, April 28, 2024
Evelyn Palmer-Schneider, a devoted wife, cherished friend, and active member of her community, passed away on Oct. 30, 2023 at the age of 87. Born on November 17, 1936 in the picturesque Texas Hill Country to John and Rosie (Rejcek) Knapp, Evelyn spent her early years in Harmon, Texas, alongside her beloved sister Helen (Knapp) Russell of Oakridge, TN.
Evelyn began her educational journey in Pidcoke and Harmon, completing her formative years in Gatesville, where she graduated with the Class of 1954. Her professional career took shape as she joined Texas Power & Light on January 25, 1955, marking the beginning of a dedicated service that spanned nearly four decades until her retirement on October 25, 1992. Not content with a quiet retirement, she later ventured into the world of real estate at Coldwell Banker from 1993 to 1997.
Throughout her life, Evelyn was a beacon of community engagement and philanthropy. Her active involvement in various organizations and clubs, such as Beta Sigma Phi, ABWA, Killeen Kiwanis Club, AUSA, Families in Crisis, Modern Study Club, Central Texas Republican Women, Killeen Food Care Center, Harker Heights Kiwanis Club, Killeen Chamber of Commerce, and Harker Heights Chamber Ambassador, exemplified her unwavering commitment to making a positive impact in the lives of others.
Evelyn's spiritual life was equally significant, as she found solace and strength in her faith as a proud member of St. Paul Chong Hasang Catholic Church and the Ladies of Charity. Her love for literature and camaraderie manifested in her active participation in a book club and her cherished Friday night card games with friends.
Evelyn was preceded in death by her parents, sister, Helen Russell, and brothers, Frank Knapp and Bernard Knapp and is survived by her loving husband, Darold Peter Schneider, who was her constant companion and unwavering support throughout the years, and stepdaughter, Christa Mitchell and husband Richard Mitchell and two grandchildren, Isaac and Savannah Mitchell, along with numerous special nieces and nephews along with many cousins. Her absence will be deeply felt by all who knew her, as her warmth, generosity, and vibrant spirit left an indelible mark on the hearts of her family, friends, and the community at large.
May her legacy of kindness and dedication continue to inspire others as they cherish the memory of this remarkable woman. Rosary, visitation, and Mass of Christian Burial Services will be held at St. Paul Chong Hasang Catholic Church located at 1000 E. FM 2410, Harker Heights on Nov. 14, 2023, at 10:00am. Interment will be at Central Texas Veterans Cemetery, 11463 TX-195, Killeen at 2 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to a charity of your choice in memory of Evelyn Palmer-Schneider.
Services are in the care of Broecker Funeral Home, Salado.
