Charla Jean Menendez

MENENDEZ, Charla Jean Shafer, crossed over Saturday, December 20, 2013. Born November 12, 1931 to Cloyd and Zada Shafer in Toledo, Oh. She spent the early part of her life traveling the world and raising her three children abroad, visiting and living in amazing places all over Africa, the Far East, South America and beyond. She loved animals and the ocean with all her heart. She was the first woman to ever skin dive and scuba in the waters off South Africa in the mid 1950’s, creating memories she fondly spoke about throughout her life. Settling in Brandon, Fla. in 1974, she began a career spanning almost 40 years at Brighthouse, creating friendships that would last a lifetime. Her strength, courage, devotion to others, generosity and kind heart will forever be imprinted upon all who knew her. She is survived by her daughters, Pamela Schultheis and partner, Richard, Marcia Davis and partner, Quintin;son, Sean Davis and partner, Alison; her beloved granddaughter, Charla Schultheis. A celebration of her life will be held 11 a.m. Saturday, January 3, 2015 at Stowers Funeral Home. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to LifePath Hospice or any animal charity of choice.