Sharon Medulla's Obituary
Sharon Frances Medulla, born November 11, 1945, to Edward and Mary Stodol, passed away peacefully in her home, surrounded by loved ones, on December 21, 2024, at the age of 79. She grew up in Hamtramck, Michigan, alongside her two loving sisters and best friends, Felicia and Elaine, both of whom survive her.
In 1969, Sharon married the late Vincent Medulla, and they settled in Hamtramck to raise their two children, the late Nicholas, and Dena. Sharon was also the loving mother of Doug; stepmother to Michael and Jill; and a proud grandmother to Ariah, Karissa, Nichole, Mikey, Vincent, and Jackson. A devoted “fur mom” to the late Max and other countless cats, dogs, and hamsters her kids brought home (and promised to care for!), she never turned away from a hungry meow. While her greatest joy was her family and beloved felines, her love extended far beyond, touching the lives of many with warmth and kindness. Sharon was a cherished queen, and her legacy of love and care will be forever remembered by all who knew her.
A cornerstone of the Hamtramck community, Sharon dedicated many years to serving others. She was the Director of the Housing Code Department for the City of Hamtramck, a role she held for 16 years. In this position, she formed countless friendships and made a lasting positive impact on her community and neighbors. Throughout her life, she also held leadership roles in the Hamtramck Block Club Association, Hamtramck Community Development Corp, and the Hamtramck Festival Committee, as well as serving as president of the Parent Teacher Association during her children’s school years. Her deep commitment to her community reflected her caring and dedicated spirit. Sharon later found joy in her work (and discounts!) at Kohl’s, where she made many friends before retiring after nearly two decades to enjoy life without an alarm clock.
Sharon was the matriarch of her family and an ever-growing circle of people who considered her a mother figure. Known as "Mom" to dozens of her children’s friends, Sharon welcomed all with open arms and a warm heart. She was generous, a great listener, and always quick to offer advice—whether sought or not! She would step in to help anyone in need, offering support, money, clothing, a safe place to sleep, and kindness to those going through tough times.
Shopping trips and dinners with Dena were some of her favorite pastimes, as were the annual vacations she enjoyed with family and friends. Sharon spent many a “holiday” basking in the sun, surrounded by loved ones, laughter, and delicious food. She cherished spending time with her sisters, Felicia and Elaine, often going to their favorite restaurants together. Sharon also loved shopping for flowers to plant in her garden, creating beautiful spaces that brought her joy and peace.
Sharon was the longtime owner of the legendary “Big House” and “Little House” on Neibel Street in Hamtramck, homes that were well-known and beloved by family and friends for many years. This past year, she made the decision to sell them and move in with her daughter and her daughter’s family, where she continued to share her warmth, love, and wisdom.
Sharon’s kindness, resilience, and generosity will be profoundly missed by all who knew her. Her gorgeous green eyes, which sparkled with laughter, and her radiant smile are truly unforgettable. Though our hearts are broken, and she will be deeply missed, her memory will live on forever within us.
In accordance with her wishes, no services will be held. Donations in Sharon’s memory may be made to some of her favorite charities, including the Michigan Humane Society, the Humane Society of the United States, Forgotten Harvest, the ASPCA, Gleaners Community Food Bank, and the Detroit Rescue Mission Ministries. Please visit www.rudyfuneral.com to light a candle or to share a memory
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