Sharla Jean VanderVen, 76, formerly of New Era, passed away peacefully at her home in Hiawassee, Georgia on Wednesday, July 26, 2023.  She was born June 30, 1947, the daughter of Donald Eugene and Agnes Irene (Rozeboom) VanderVen.

Sharla had a wide variety of careers from nursing, correctional officer to working in social services.  Though seeming to be very different positions, they all boiled down to her serving others, her greatest strength.

Her complete faith in Christ carried her through all aspects of her life. She enjoyed various activities including Bible study, reading, gardening, going to the shooting range and caring for her animals.

Sharla is survived by: her children, Michelle (John) Jones, Kristine (Bob Rulli) Bennett, and Sheri (Paul) Warren; grandchildren, Hunter and Kolten Jones, Roslyn and Luca Rulli, and Rain Warren; sisters, Helen (Warren) Dirkse and Sharon (Clark) Kelly.

Sharla was preceded in death by: her granddaughter, Kenzie Jones; her parents Donald Eugene and Agnes Irene (Rozeboom) VanderVen.

We want to give a special thanks to Regency SouthernCare Hospice, who were amazing, going above and beyond just keeping Sharla comfortable and always being available, providing emotional support to the whole family and excellent care. We would like to also recognize our church family at Calvary Alliance, who were always checking in to see how they could help, through prayer, cards and visits.

Memorial services in Michigan will be held at 11 am, Wednesday, August 2, 2023, at New Era Reformed Church, 4775 First Street, New Era, Michigan 49446.  A luncheon will follow at the church

Celebration of Life in Georgia will be held following Sunday service (approximately noon), Sunday, August 13, 2023, at the Calvary Alliance Church Fellowship Hall, 1390 US-76, Hiawassee, Georgia 30546.  A potluck will be held in conjunction.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a contribution to Glory Hope and Life, www.gloryhopelife.org, in Sharla's name. This charitable organization provides direct assistance to cancer patients in Northeast Georgia.  They were able to help Sharla during her cancer treatments.

Harris Funeral Home, in Shelby, is in charge of arrangements for the Memorial in Michigan.

www.harrisfhome.com