Denice Pope Schoonmaker

After graduating from Ridgewood High School in Ridgewood, New Jersey, in 1965, Denice studied Sociology at Sam Houston State University in Huntsville, Texas. During her time there, she was a member and President of the Delta Zeta Sorority. In 1972, Denice married her high school sweetheart, Noel Robert Schoonmaker. Together, they had two children, Kristine and Laura, and shared 40 years of marriage.

Denice worked for Delta Airlines for over 20 years and later for Florida Blue for nearly 20 years, holding various leadership positions in operations and training. Throughout her career and life, Denice served as a mentor to many colleagues, students, and young professionals in her community. She was actively involved in organizations supporting professional advancement for people with disabilities and contributed to numerous other charities. Outside of work, Denice cherished her time spent caring for her yard, home, and enjoying the company of her grandkids, family, and friends.

Denice was predeceased by her father, Stewart Pope, on June 11, 1988, and her mother, Catherine Jean Pope, on May 11, 2007. She is survived by her two daughters, Kristine Schoonmaker and Laura Hendricks; her son-in-law, Cary Hendricks; and her two grandsons, Cole and Tommy. She is also survived by her former husband, Noel Schoonmaker; her brothers, Todd Pope, Stewart (Mike) Pope, and Gene Pope; her sisters, Stacey Pope and Melissa Derickson; as well as many beloved cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends.

Her family would like to extend their immense gratitude to the many friends, neighbors, family members, and caregivers who supported Denice over the past three years.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, September 14, 2024 at the Legacy Lodge at 4801 San Jose Boulevard, Jacksonville, FL, 32207.