Richard Schmitt, Sr.

After a long, courageous battle with numerous health issues, the inimitable Richard L. Schmitt Sr, "The Juice", returned to the heart of God on March 12 at the age of 81. He was born on June 16, 1939 in New Orleans to the late Victor L. Schmitt, Sr. and Cornelia Mary Schmitt. He married the love of his life at 16, Carole Mary LeJeune Schmitt, and they were together for 66 years. Richard went by a number of nicknames, but was called "The Juice" by his friends. He had a legendary career selling cars on "World Famous Canal St.", and his knowledge of automobiles was unrivaled. He was a member of the New Orleans Road Rebels Car Club. He organized the first ever car show in the state of LA and helped run car shows at the Rivergate and the Superdome for years. He was a former President of the LA Independent Auto Dealers Assn. and sold many a New Orleanian their first car. He belonged to the SSVDL and was a dedicated member of the Italian-American Marching Club and faithfully marched with them in St. Joseph's Day parades. He was an original member of Judge Anthony Russo's famous Wagoosie Worriors Mardi Gras club who paraded through the streets of his beloved city on Mardi Gras Day. He was also an actor who starred in "The Lardfather", a local production that spoofed The Godfather movies. The Juice could fill up a room. If you met him, you'd never forget him. Everyone who knew The Juice has a story. Some have ten stories! He will be sorely missed by his family and legions of friends. Richard is survived by his sons, Richard Jr. (Marie), Mark (Joy), Victor (Robyn), and daughter Celeste (Anthony), his grandchildren, Matthew (Lauren), Marissa (Doug), Aaron, Cameron, Taylor, Lillette and Alexis, and great-granddaughter, Leona Marina. He is also survived by a number of cousins, nieces and nephews. As he always said instead of goodbye, "See you later on Decatur!" Rest in Peace, Juice. We Love You! The family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to his doctors, nurses and caretakers at Ochsner and Passages Hospice. Arrangements are being handled by Bagnell Funeral Home in Covington. An announcement of a service for Richard will be made in the near future.