Carla Rae Schroeder – June 21, 1945 – May 12, 2026

Carla Rae Schroeder, beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, passed away peacefully on May 12, 2026, surrounded by family. Born on June 21, 1945, in Modesto, CA, arriving into this world at just over 2 lbs., Carla lived a life defined by resilience and strength.

She graduated from Livingston High School in 1963 and began her career at Lee Jewelers. In 1964, Carla and her sister traveled across the country to Kansas City to attend Weaver Airline School. After a few months, wanting to return to California, they moved back, and Carla began working at LLNL, where she met her husband of 41 years, Thomas W. Schroeder.

Throughout her life, Carla faced challenges with quiet determination and grace. Her selfless spirit touched everyone she met—always putting others before herself and offering comfort, wisdom, and kindness without hesitation. She was the steady heart of her family, holding everyone together through life’s storms and celebrating every joy with boundless warmth.

Carla, who had an unwavering love for others, is survived by her daughters Sheri Schroeder of Sacramento, CA; Stephanie, son-in-law Rudy, and grandsons Troy and Dominic Esparza of El
Dorado Hills, CA; and by her sister Linda and brotherinlaw Bob Speetzen of Chandler, AZ. She
is also deeply missed by numerous nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends. She was preceded in death by her husband, Thomas W. Schroeder; her parents, Beulah Lenora Edmonds and William Erskin Sapp; and her brother, Stephen Sapp. Carla’s love for her family was the cornerstone of her life. She found her greatest happiness in simple moments—sharing laughter around the table, cooking, baking, coaching soccer when her daughters were young, running the softball snack bar, and creating a home filled with
compassion and care. Her legacy lives on in the strength and tenderness she instilled in those she loved.

A celebration of life will be held on June 21, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Blackstone Clubhouse in El Dorado Hills, CA, followed by a graveside service on June 25, 2026, at Wiley Cemetery in Wiley, CO, at 11:00 a.m.

Though she is no longer with us, Carla’s memory will forever be a guiding light—a reminder of the power of resilience, the beauty of selflessness, and the enduring strength of love.

To leave online condolences please visit www.valleyfuneralcremation.com.