Remembering Brandon Schmidt—MARSOC Marine, Skydiver, and Pillar of the Sneads Ferry Community
On Saturday, July 19, the Sneads Ferry and Topsail communities will come together to celebrate the life of Brandon Schmidt, a distinguished U.S. Marine Corps veteran, elite MARSOC operator, and passionate skydiver, who tragically lost his life in a skydiving accident earlier this month in Illinois. He was 40 years old.
Though we never had the privilege of knowing Brandon personally, we at DiscoverTopsailIsland.com join the community in mourning his passing and extend our deepest and most heartfelt condolences to his wife Nicole, their son Jordan, and all who knew and loved him. As fellow members of this community, we honor his memory and express our profound gratitude for his service to our country.
Brandon served with the United States Marine Corps Forces Special Operations Command—MARSOC—a highly respected and demanding branch of the military. As a MARSOC Marine, he stood among the best of the best. These elite warriors are known for their strength, precision, and unwavering dedication to mission and country. To earn a place within their ranks is a rare achievement; to serve with distinction, as Brandon did, is a reflection of remarkable courage and character.
The discipline, leadership, and quiet confidence that defined his military service continued to shape his life long after active duty. Upon retiring from the Corps, Brandon sought new challenges, eventually falling in love with skydiving—a pursuit that matched his adventurous spirit. With over 2,900 jumps to his name, he was not only a skilled skydiver, but a respected figure within that community as well. His passion was as clear in the air as it was on the ground.
Locally, Brandon’s impact was just as meaningful. He was a constant source of support behind the entrepreneurial efforts of his wife Nicole, who built two successful establishments: The Crooked Lotus and Centerfire Lounge. Brandon’s steadfast belief in her vision helped bring those dreams to life. Though often behind the scenes, he was known as someone who stood solidly for those he cared about, always encouraging and uplifting others.
Brandon’s devotion extended above all to his family. He and Nicole shared nearly two decades of partnership, during which they raised their son Jordan, who recently began college at Penn State. In speaking of her son, Nicole has expressed admiration for his strength and grace in the face of overwhelming loss—traits that reflect the values Brandon lived by every day. "He’s a mini Brandon,” she said. “Just like his dad—positive, strong, and steady.”
A public Celebration of Life Ceremony will take place on Saturday, July 19, at Splash by the Sea, located at 790 New River Inlet Road, North Topsail Beach. All who wish to honor Brandon are welcome to attend. The event will bring together friends, family, fellow veterans, and community members to reflect on the remarkable life he lived and the legacy he leaves behind.
To the Schmidt family: we thank you for sharing Brandon with this country and this community. His service and sacrifice, both in uniform and beyond, will not be forgotten. Brandon Schmidt lived with valor, loved deeply, and left behind a legacy that reaches far beyond the clouds he once soared through.
Though gone far too soon, he will forever remain a Marine, a protector, and a symbol of strength—not just in memory, but in the hearts of all who had the honor to know his name.
About the Author
Written by J.L. Wells, a longtime Topsail Island resident with firsthand experience exploring the island’s beaches, restaurants, local businesses, and coastal activities throughout the year. Drawing on lived local knowledge, J.L. Wells provides practical insight to help readers understand what Topsail Island offers visitors and residents alike.