Waldorf Fire Auxiliary Loses Veteran Member Sharon Zdobysz

Sharon Zdobysz died on Wednesday, Oct. 21, at Inova Fairfax Hospital in Virginia. She was 73.

The Waldorf Volunteer Fire Department announced the death of the 73-year-old resident, who had served as a lifetime member of the organization. Zdobysz joined the department's Auxiliary in 2008 and spent the next 18 years holding leadership and administrative positions. During that time, she supported firefighters and local community events.

The Zdobysz name is well-known at the Waldorf firehouse. In October 2023, the department recognized three family members for their long-term service. Sharon received a 15 Years of Service Award at that ceremony. Her daughter, Heather, was honored for 30 years of service. Her husband, Michael "ZZ" Zdobysz, received the Charlotte Moffatt Outstanding Member Award. The Auxiliary noted at the time that the family consistently put in many hours of work.

Before her retirement, Zdobysz worked as an administrative assistant for the US Courts. She was born in La Plata on May 19, 1953, to James Robert and Mary Catherine Coates. Her obituary lists her hobbies as vacationing in North Carolina's Outer Banks, crafting, baking, and watching Washington's football team. She was also known for decorating her home with as many as eight Christmas trees during the holiday season.

Michael Zdobysz, who was married to Sharon for more than 52 years, posted a tribute to her on Facebook. "Today the love of my life, my soulmate my wife Sharon Zdobysz has passed away," he wrote. He recalled frequently telling her that if there were a Saint Sharon, it would have to be her for putting up with him. He ended the post with a reminder of her baking skills, writing, "PS they will miss your mandarin orange cakes at the fish fry."

Zdobysz is survived by her husband and three children: Christopher, Heather, and Justin "Bubba" Zdobysz. She is also survived by four grandchildren, her brother Robert Coates, and extended family.

Visitation will be held from 10 a.m. to noon on Wednesday, Nov. 4, at Raymond Funeral Home, 5635 Washington Ave. in La Plata. A funeral service is scheduled for noon at the same location. A celebration of life will follow at the Waldorf Volunteer Fire Department, 3245 Old Washington Road. The family has requested donations to the Waldorf Volunteer Fire Department Auxiliary in lieu of flowers.