Ronald Gene Schott

Ronald “Ron” Schott was born in Cincinnati, Ohio on June 1, 1942, to Gene and Hazel Schott. He went to be with the Lord after an extended illness on October 17, 2025, in Hiawassee, Georgia.

Ron grew up in Tampa, Florida, and graduated from Chamberlain High School before proudly serving in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War. He served four years and received an honorable discharge. After his military service, Ron earned a bachelor’s degree in business and a master’s degree in counseling from the University of South Florida. He was ordained as a minister in 1987 through Tampa Covenant Church.

A man of many talents and passions, Ron was a professional parachutist with over 3,000 jumps. He was well known for opening the Sun-N-Fun Airshow in Lakeland, Florida for many years, skydiving while carrying a 50-foot American flag. He also helped establish the Christian Skydivers Association, combining his love for skydiving and his deep faith.

Ron was a dedicated advocate for veterans and individuals in recovery. He was a proud member of several veterans’ organizations in both Florida and Georgia, including Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 1101 in Blairsville, where he served as Treasurer and later as Chaplain. He was also a devoted member of the Patriot Guard Riders, honoring fellow veterans at funerals, including many at Bushnell National Cemetery and beyond.

Throughout his professional life, Ron worked in social services, specializing in counseling individuals recovering from alcohol and drug addiction. His heart was deeply rooted in serving others—especially veterans and those on the path to recovery.

Ron was a loving and devoted husband to Carmen Schott for 31 years. He was living in New Mexico and moved back to Tampa and that’s where he met Carmen. They later moved to Hiawassee, Georgia, in 2013, where he found joy in the mountains and changing seasons. In Hiawassee, Ron became an active member of North Mount Zion Church of God. He served as a greeter, worked in the House of Mana food bank, was part of the church security team, and helped start Refuge Recovery, a program for those battling addiction.

Ron is survived by his beloved wife, Carmen Schott; stepchildren David Hughes (Sherrill), Doug Hughes (Kathy), Denise Scott (Edgar), and Daniel Hughes (Debora); nine grandchildren; two great-grandchildren (with one on the way); and many cherished friends and church family.

He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him—but we take comfort in knowing he is now rejoicing in his eternal home with the Lord.

A visitation will be held on October 24, 2025, from 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm at Blount & Curry Funeral Home at Garden of Memories, located at 4207 E Lake Ave, Tampa, FL 33610.

The funeral service will follow at the same venue from 1:00 pm to 1:45 pm.

A graveside service is scheduled for 2:00 pm to 2:30 pm at Garden of Memories Cemetery, E Lake Ave, Tampa, FL 33610.