Virginia Marie ("Ginny") Schmahl

Virginia Marie (“Ginny”) Schmahl, passed away on September 9, 2023, at her home in Galveston, TX, at the age of 61. She was born on March 7, 1962, in Rockaway Beach, NY, to Frederick Louw and Joan (Lannon) Louw. Virginia was preceded in death by her parents and her older sister, Marianne Gilliams of Los Angeles, CA.  

Ginny, a loving wife and supportive mother, is survived by her husband, George P. Schmahl of Galveston, and her twin sons, Erik Schmahl of Tucson, AZ, and Daniel Schmahl of Galveston. She will be dearly missed by her siblings, William Louw and Maureen Morgan of Rockaway Beach, and Fred Louw and Gregory Louw of Long Island, NY.  

Ginny was a true ocean child, living most of her life on or near the water. Her passion for nature and the arts was sparked at Beach Channel High School where she graduated in 1980. This adventurous curiosity soon drew her to volunteer for the national parks, first on a backcountry trail crew in Chaco Canyon, NM and then as a marine naturalist/interpreter at Biscayne National Park in Homestead, FL. She went on to work as a marine research specialist at Everglades National Park and the Florida Department of Natural Resources in the Florida Keys. After the birth of her boys in Key West, FL in 1986, Ginny shifted her professional interest towards childbirth and maternal care and became a registered nurse.  

For over 30 years, Ginny enjoyed an enriching nursing career working with mothers and babies at Lower Keys Memorial Hospital in Key West, Brazos Valley Women's Center in College Station, TX, and the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston. She became a passionate advocate for natural breastfeeding and maternal health equity.  

Outside of work, Ginny’s love of people and nature manifested in her dedication to environmental and social justice causes. She was quick to share her enthusiasm for her varied interests, from humpback whales and roseate spoonbills, to desert canyons and mangrove islands. She also enjoyed ceramics, music, dancing, and spending time with her many friends. 

In July 2022 Ginny was diagnosed with an aggressive form of cancer, but took it in great stride, living her remaining days to the fullest and spreading joy, gratitude, and support to those around her until the very end.  As an artist, advocate, and inspiration to so many, Ginny Schmahl will be remembered for her kind heart, her love of nature, and her dedication to her family and profession. Her enchanting presence, love, and care will continue to shine.  

A memorial celebration of Ginny’s life is being organized and will be held in the Spring. Cremation services were arranged by J Levy & Termini Funeral Home of Galveston. 

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