Phoenix, AZ - Sharon Lela Rieger, age 64, passed away peacefully on May 16, 2026, surrounded by her loving family.

Born on August 1, 1961, in Norman, Oklahoma, to Henry A. and Marilyn J. Rieger, Sharon grew up with a

vibrant spirit. After graduating from Norman High School, she earned degrees in Education from

Oklahoma State University, and Physical Therapy from the University of Oklahoma. She began her career

as a traveling physical therapist in hospitals across the country before settling in Phoenix, Arizona. There,

she established Rieger Services, LLC, a highly successful contracting agency that brought healing, relief,

and dedicated care to thousands of children with disabilities in area school districts.

In 1996, Sharon met her loving wife, Jan Pavella. Together for 30 years, they built a life rooted in service

and dedication to charitable causes. They raised their daughter, Kate Pearl Rieger, and were filled with

immense pride watching her graduate from ASU Law School this year.

Sharon was widely adored for her radiant smile and caring nature. Though she faced health challenges in

her adult years, she refused to be defined by them. Supported by Jan and Kate's devoted care, Sharon

lived life fully. She possessed a passion for global travel, camper van adventures, watching sports, dining

and socializing, and making memories with her family and friends.

Sharon was preceded in death by her brother, Larry A. Rieger; her father, Henry A. Rieger; her stepfather,

Dr. Robert B. Zumwalt; and her loving canine friend, Pearl.

She is survived by her wife, Jan, and daughter, Kate, of the home in Phoenix; her mother, Marilyn J.

Zumwalt of Norman, OK; stepmother, Crystal Rieger of Norman, OK; sisters Jolene de Verges (George) of

Dallas, TX, and Elizabeth Gossett (Jim) of Ithaca, NY; brothers John "Andy" Rieger (Karen) of Norman, OK,

and Robert Rieger (Oya) of Ithaca, NY; sister-in-law Pat Rieger of Verdigris, OK; and many beloved nieces,

nephews, cousins, friends, and colleagues.

A memorial service will be planned for a later date. Memorial donations can be directed to Heifer

International: https://fundraise.heifer.org/SharonRieger