Sharlet Alagia

With a life that spanned times of great change in the world around her, Sharlet Alagia was a blessing in the lives of everyone she met. Her deep and genuine faith formed the unshakeable foundation of all that she did, and she exemplified what it meant to glorify the Lord with her whole heart. It was easy to see that nothing brought Sharlet greater joy than being surrounded with her loved ones. She was always willing to go above and beyond to serve those around her in whatever ways she could, big or small. Life will never be the same without Sharlet here, but her memory will be forever cherished.

The early 1960s were some of the most exciting years to be an American. The young JFK was elected president, and there was a huge surge in pop culture, seeing the emergence of rock and roll, iconic dances, and bold new fashion trends. During the infancy of this influential time, Sharlet was born in Pennsylvania on May 24, 1960. She was raised in the family home alongside her siblings, Jean and Drake. Sharlet looked back with fondness on her childhood, and she appreciated the gift of growing up surrounded by beautiful mountains and valleys to walk and drive through. From a young age, she loved all kinds of animals and, since her mother showed dogs, Sharlet held a deep appreciation for the affection of pets.

Exciting changes were on the horizon for Sharlet as she went on to pursue her bachelor’s in psychology at Mansfield University, a small college in the mountains. It was here that she met the young man who would forever hold the key to her heart. His name was Haru, and he was a foreign exchange student. He loved tennis and dining in the cafeteria, where Sharlet worked. There was an instant connection between the two of them. Sharlet helped Haru with his studies and his English skills. Over time, their relationship blossomed, and they soon realized that they were made for each other. Once they had graduated, Sharlet and Haru were united in marriage, with a wedding in Pennsylvania and in Japan. The newlyweds then settled down in Japan to begin their lives together.

Of all the things Sharlet loved in life, she treasured her family above all else. She was overjoyed to welcome her daughter, Toyo, in Japan in 1984. Sharlet thrived in her role as a supportive and caring mother, and she was devoted to caring for her daughter. Toyo was her greatest source of pride and joy. Later in life, Sharlet was thrilled to become a grandmother to her grandson, Kai, whom she adored and doted on whenever she could. Sharlet was always ready to shower her grandson with presents, spoiling him endlessly, and looked forward to watching him every week. Being a grandmother brought her so much happiness. Sharlet always considered herself blessed to witness her family tree grow.

Throughout her life, Sharlet was dedicated to serving those around her, both professionally and in her everyday life. She worked in the field of psychology, caring for patients who had suffered head injuries. Sharlet also used her training and knowledge as a certified nursing assistant to help underprivileged people receive care. Her unrelenting faith allowed her to serve others with an open heart and without judgment. Sharlet was a prayer warrior and an active member of the prayer team at her church, and people would sometimes stay just to listen to her pray. She always showed kindness to strangers, even telemarketers, and wished everyone a blessed day. Sharlet led by example and even helped others find their own faith.

Sharlet faced every challenge that came her way with a fierce spirit of determination. In 2016, she was tragically hit by a car. Though she was told she would never walk again, Sharlet refused to take no for an answer. She said, “I came in on a stretcher, and I’m leaving in Sketchers!” After working hard towards recovery at Mary Free Bed, Sharlet did walk out, in her sparkly pink Sketchers, just like she said she would. No obstacle was too intimidating for Sharlet and her faith.

There were so many small things that brought Sharlet joy in her everyday life. She loved the color pink and purple flowers, and she took excellent care of her beloved cats. The Doyle family farm, Echo Hawk Farm, was Sharlet’s favorite place to be, and she went to many family gatherings there over the years. She enjoyed creating and discussing art and paintings. Working at the Kalamazoo Valley Museum was a perfect fit for her inquisitive and imaginative nature. Sharlet also had a passion for writing poetry, and she recently published a children’s book. She was a vivid storyteller. Sharlet loved coconut oil popcorn and a strong cup of Waterstreet Coffee. She was happiest when spending time with her friends and family.

When reflecting on the rich life of Sharlet Alagia, it is clear to all who knew her that she was truly radiant from the inside out. She was an unyielding source of strength, even in the most difficult of times, and she was a shining example of generosity and resilience. With faith as her constant companion, Sharlet made the most of every moment she was given. Her insatiable zest for life could be felt by everyone around her, and she never took a blessing for granted. Though she will be dearly missed, Sharlet leaves behind a priceless legacy that her loved ones will be proud to carry on in her footsteps.

Sharlet Alagia of Kalamazoo, age 64, died on March 28, 2025. Sharlet was born May 24, 1960. She was preceded in death by her parents; and sister, Jean Gaudio. Surviving are her daughter, Toyo (Josiah Doyle) Ohtsuka; grandson, Kai Doyle; sibling, Drake Vosberg.

Services will be held Thursday, April 10th, at 11 AM at The River, 517 Walbridge Street, Kalamazoo. Lunch will follow. Family and friends are encouraged to wear pink or purple or your favorite color in Sharlet’s honor. Celebrate Sharlet’s life online by sharing your favorite stories and photos on her dedicated webpage at BetzlerLifeStory.com. Memorial contributions may be made to The River or Kalamazoo Animal Rescue. Betzler Life Story Funeral Homes, 6080 Stadium Drive, Kalamazoo (269) 375-2900.