Mahalia Jean Scharf

Mahalia Jean (Jeanie) Scharf died at her home on Monday, May 14, 2018 from an aggressive form of thyroid cancer. Jeanie was born Mahalia Jean Harris May 22, 1932 at San Bernardino Co Hospital. Her family home was in Colton, CA.  Jeanie emerged from a very difficult early childhood with a survivor's instinct, a fighting spirit, and a fierce determination to protect the vulnerable (both people and animals). She was always grateful to her Aunt Bessie who "took her in" to live and travel with her family numerous times throughout her grade school and high school years.  Jeanie was known to be able to coax any animal to come to her, let her pet them and even eat out of her hand. She began raising and breeding "toy teacup" poodles in the 70's and didn't stop until a number of years ago when her favorite stud dog, "Sonny", died. He was a loyal companion who she still thought about and missed up until her death.  Jeanie was married to Charles T. (Bud) Burton in 1950. In 1961 her dream of having children came to pass when they adopted Charles Bruce Burton who was born on July 5th of that year. They lived in Maywood, Ca. at that time. In 1971 she moved to Anaheim after her marriage to Roger Scharf. In 1991 she and Roger moved to Yorba Linda. Jeanie's great pride and joy was her son and her grandchildren. Grandson Paul was born in 1981 and granddaughter, Virginia in 1985. Paul's son, Camren, was born in 2002. Her only regret was that they didn't live closer so she could spend more time with them.  She had not only a special way with animals, but also was able to grow and propagate beautiful orchids. At one time she had 400 pots of orchids which she had arranged around her patio. Jeanie was very active throughout her life. She was known as the petite blonde who competed with the best of them. She did handstands off high-dives, hunted and fished (deep sea fishing) with the best of them, raced her corvette, helped her husband Bud build a kit airplane in their garage, went on the highest, fastest amusement rides with her grandkids, and never showed fear in the face of adversity.  Jeanie is survived by her sister, Mona Barger, brother, Roy (Bonnie) Maxey, son, Bruce (wife and caregiver, Terry Lynn), grandchildren: Paul Burton, his son, Camren, and Virginia (Mike) Crawford. She is also survived by her Godson, Chuck Dietrich, and all of the Dietrich family.  A special place in her heart for her companion/care giver of 2 & 1/2yrs., Rosa Place and all her family. A special thank-you to St. Joseph's Hospice, especially nurses Boni, Lulu, and Tiffany.  Donations can be made to the Humane Society or charity of your choice.