Patricia (Patti) Jayne Schneider, of Mechanicsville, VA, beloved wife, mother, teacher, and friend, passed away peacefully on July 5th after a courageous three-year battle with cancer. She leaves behind a legacy of warmth, dedication, and a profound impact on countless young lives during her 40-year career in education. Patti held a strong Christian faith and found comfort in her belief in God’s love and grace. Her faith was a guiding force throughout her life and provided solace as she peacefully transitioned to her heavenly home.

Born in 1956 in Wheeling, WV, Patti discovered her passion for teaching early on and devoted 28 years of her career to nurturing young minds in Hanover County Public Schools as an elementary classroom teacher at Battlefield Park Elementary (1993-2006) and Kersey Creek Elementary (2006-2021). She earned a Bachelor’s in Elementary Education from West Liberty College and a Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction from Virginia Commonwealth University. Her expertise in teaching mathematics was matched only by her boundless enthusiasm for creating an engaging and supportive classroom environment, where smiley faces adorned the walls and every child felt valued and inspired. 

One of the most memorable school projects she led was an economics lesson using reindeer food, which students produced and sold to the school, sparking their curiosity and fostering learning in a fun way. Patti also used her many years of classroom experience to instruct other teachers on elementary math methods as an adjunct faculty member at VCU. She retired as a classroom teacher in 2021 but continued to serve students as a math tutor at Kersey Creek Elementary through this school year. 

Patti was a distinguished educator, recognized for her dedication and excellence in teaching. She achieved National Board Certification, a testament to her commitment to professional growth and high standards in education. Her impact was further recognized with the prestigious R.E.B. Award for Teaching Excellence. Patti’s peers and students alike celebrated her achievements, honoring her as Teacher of the Year twice at Battlefield Park Elementary in 1998 (also Mechanicsville Teacher of the Year) and in 2004. 

Beyond her role as an educator, Patti found joy in cultivating gardens and sharing her knowledge as a Master Gardener, a testament to her love for flowers. Her green thumb extended to her personal life, where she tended to her own garden. Much like her personality, her garden was unique and a bit wild, reflecting her untamable spirit. Patti cherished her visits to Lewis Ginter Botanical Gardens, especially during the holiday season when she delighted in the magical Christmas lights that illuminated the gardens. These visits, often with her grandchildren, were a source of joy and wonder for her.

Patti’s love for antiquing and her knack for finding treasures brought her not only personal joy but also connected her with others who shared her passion for discovering hidden gems and preserving pieces of history. Her antique booth was a testament to her keen eye and appreciation for craftsmanship.

Patti also enjoyed wine tasting with her husband, exploring the flavors of Virginia wineries and savoring moments of relaxation and togetherness.

In addition to her professional and personal pursuits, Patti cherished her family, anchored by her marriage of 47 years to David. Her world was completed as mother to her three children, Erica, Nathan, and Amanda. Her family was the center of her life, and she found immense joy in the company of her six grandchildren, who brought her endless laughter and happiness. 

Patti is preceded in death by her father Kenneth Tillman. She is survived by her mother, Jane Tillman; husband David Schneider; children Erica Howat with her husband Ian, Nathan Schneider with his wife Zoe, and Amanda McDaniel with her husband Mike; grandchildren Anna Howat, Galen Howat, Brandon Schneider, Tyler McDaniel, Will McDaniel, and Ethan McDaniel; siblings Gary Tillman with his wife Paula, Debbie Tillman, and Bob Tillman with his wife Beth; and 17 nieces and nephews. 

Patti Schneider’s life was characterized by her unwavering kindness, her dedication to education, and her zest for life’s simple pleasures. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, colleagues, and the countless students whose lives she touched with her infectious smile.

Visitation will be held from 4:00-6:00 p.m. on July 10th at Restoration Church, 9161 Atlee Rd C, Mechanicsville, VA 23116. A memorial service to celebrate Patti’s life will be held at 4:00 p.m. on July 11th also at Restoration Church. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Patti Schneider All Smiles Memorial Scholarship fund through the Hanover Education Foundation. Checks can be mailed to Hanover Education Foundation at 200 Berkley Street, Ashland, VA 23005 or payment processed online at https://hcps.us/staff/hanover_education_foundation/donate. Add Patti Schneider All Smiles Memorial Scholarship fund in the memo line or description. 

Rest in peace, Patti Schneider. Your legacy of love, learning, and laughter will forever be cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing you.