MCFARLAND, Wis. - Shela B. Fuller, age 75, passed away peacefully at St. Mary’s Hospital on Saturday, June 18, 2022. She was the daughter of Patrick and Betty Murphy of Milwaukee, Wis.

Following graduation from Holy Angels High School, Shela studied education at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater. After graduation, she began her teaching career in Greenfield, Wis., where she met her future husband, Bill Fuller. Bill and Shela were united in marriage on Sept. 27, 1974. They had their daughter, Jennifer, soon thereafter. Shela took time off from teaching to be the absolute best mom in the world until returning as a kindergarten teacher in the mid-1980s at Immaculate Heart of Mary School in Monona. Shela continued to teach at IHM, and eventually moved to teach fifth grade, until her retirement in 2014.

Throughout her years as a devoted mother, wife and educator, Shela touched countless lives with her generosity and friendship. Many people referred to her as “Saint Shela” because she unfailingly put others first. She donated her time and money to many different charities, including cooking monthly meals for Luke House in Madison. She was a devoted member of IHM and Christ the King Catholic churches, and her faith was strong. It was that faith that gave her the spirit and strength to fight through her diagnosis and treatment schedules.

Shela found joy in so many of her friends and family. She participated in local exercise groups, and was a member of the Madison Curling Club. She enjoyed taking family camping trips to White Deer Lake in northern Wisconsin, as well as many other State and National parks all over the U.S. She loved to travel, and especially enjoyed spending spring breaks in both Myrtle Beach, S.C. and Pompano Beach, Fla. Back home, she loved to host parties and family dinners, create traditions with her grandchildren, go to Brewers and Mallards games, and was quite good at “cheating” at cribbage. She loved to dance, and her laugh was music. Shela was the heart of her family and friendship circles.

Shela is survived by her daughter, Jennifer (Kevin) Zamastil; grandchildren, Barrett, Max and Holly; brothers, Rob Murphy, Lincoln (Susan) Murphy and Pat (Jill) Murphy; cousin, Glen Barrett; sister-in-law, Donna (Dave) Johnson; and many beloved nieces and nephews. Special thanks to mom’s dearest friends for all of their love and support: Linda and Merlin Cayemberg, Marianne and Wayne Woock, Gail and Larry Koch, Karen Thibeau and Kandy (Rob) Norman. Shela was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Bill; and her close friend, Suzanne (Sug) Kain.

Mom’s ultimate talent was living God’s light. She made all of us better just by knowing and loving her. We will miss her terribly, but we know without a doubt that she is peaceful, full of happiness, and free to live an everlasting life of joy.

A celebration of Shela’s life will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, on Thursday, June 30, 2022. Visitation will be held from 10 a.m. until 12 noon, followed by a memorial service.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Shela’s name to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or to Catholic Charities USA. It is also strongly encouraged that you raise a glass of “Jamie” or merlot … “To all the days here and after, may they be filled with fond memories, happiness and laughter. Sláinte!”

Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson East

Funeral & Cremation Care

5203 Monona Drive

(608) 221-5420

Shela B. Fuller

October 23, 1946 - June 18, 2022

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