Ria Bell Schmitz

August 28, 1929 - October 15, 2020

Ria Bell Schmitz Place of birth: Frankfurt, Germany Ria Bell Schmitz resided most of her life in Miami, FL, who passed away quietly early Thursday morning, October 15, 2020, in Orlando, FL. Ria was born August 28, 1929 to Wilhelm and Elise Bell in Frankfurt Germany. After World War II, she married and immigrated to the United States. She worked as a beautician and eventually started her own salon in Miami Beach, Florida, where she worked until her retirement. She will be remembered lovingly for her independence, enjoyment of the beach, quirky sense of humor, kindness and love of children and family. Ria was predeceased by her former husband, Heinrich Joseph Schmitz; her sister Hanni Smith; her brother Werner Bell and youngest sister, Renate Aurea Erazo Hernandez. She leaves behind her children, Wilfried Joseph Schmitz (w. Joyce Claudia), Reinhard (Reiner) Joseph Schmitz (w.Theresa Jean), Elfy Schmitz Zakovsky, Arno Heinz Schmitz, Monique Christina Schmitz Canna (h. Raymond); grandchildren, Jennifer Belinda Desormoux, William (Billy) Leonard Kersey, Michael Paul Kersey, Christopher (Chris) Lee Schmitz , Amanda Elizabeth Brumitte, Heidi Zakovsky, Robert Joseph Zakovsky Jr.; Seven great-grandchildren, Isabella, Brayden, Camron, Olivia, Tucker, Mason and Wesley; and numerous other relatives in the U.S. and Germany, and dear friends. Mom was the strongest, most compassionate and determined person we have ever known. Her greatest joy was caring for others especially children. There is not a person that grew up or visited her household that wasn’t loved and cared for by Mom. We always had a house full. Mom made sure they were well fed and wanted for nothing. She loved each of them. We hope they know just how much joy they brought to her life. Going on without her will not be easy but she left us all with much to remember her by. We should each learn from her example and live our lives as fully as she did. She will be dearly missed.