Sharon A. Matli's Obituary
Sharon A. Matli, 81, of Decatur, IL, passed away on Sunday, February 15, 2026, in Springfield, IL. Born on April 6, 1944, in Raymond, IL, the daughter of William and Dora (Bardissono) Matli.
Sharon shared a devoted friendship of over 40 years with love, strength, and companionship with her partner, Chris. The two entered a Holy Union on July 25, 2011, in Springfield, IL. Sharon was a member of Heartland MCC in Springfield, IL. She was a beautiful, Christian woman who loved Jesus, reading her bible and praying her rosary daily. Sharon was an animal lover, keeping a host of furry friends during her life, including two horses: Red in her 20's and Prize later in life. She loved to read her vast book collection and was a history buff, especially enjoying Westerns. She enjoyed handheld games, adult coloring books, word searches, riding her motorcycle, and going on day trips with Chris.
Sharon is survived by her partner — Chris; niece and nephew — Paula (Derichey) Abdullah and Marc (Yoni) Garcia; great nieces and nephews — Shalynn Davis, Malik (Jakeala) Abdullah, Godson Dominique Abdullah, Miranda Abdullah, and Mariah Abdullah; five great-great nephews; special cousin — Maryann Jackson; cousins — Marcia Atz and Louise Davis; special friend — Amanda Kemper; and her furry friend — Birdie.
Sharon was preceded in death by her parents — William and Dora Matli; step-mother — Lorraine Matli; aunt — Gwen Horne; Auntie Sharon's special niece — Paulette Szymanski; and special sister — Mary Lou Garcia.
Memorial contributions may be made to Heartland MCC or the Humane Society.
Condolences and memories may be shared online at https://www.gracelandfairlawn.com.
A celebration of life for Sharon will be held at 2:00pm on Saturday, February 28, 2026, at Graceland/Fairlawn Funeral Home. A visitation will be held one hour prior. Committal services will be held at 12:00pm on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, at Graceland Cemetery.
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