Obituary of Sharon Jane Viotto

Sharon Jane Viotto, 79, peacefully passed away on May 24, 2023, at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Somerset in Somerville, NJ. She was born in Plainfield, NJ, and spent her formative years in South Plainfield, NJ. Sharon was a beloved resident of Scotch Plains, NJ, where she proudly raised her family. In recent years, she resided in Dunellen, NJ, and Piscataway, NJ, where she found joy and contentment for the past 15 years.

Sharon had a fulfilling career as a waitress and hostess, leaving a lasting impression on those she served. She graced the Scotchwood Diner, Riverview Diner, and most recently, the Sunset Diner in Green Brook, NJ, where she charmed patrons with her warm, friendly hospitality, and “witty” sense of humor. 

Sharon was an avid reader and also enjoyed playing bingo, an activity that brought excitement and camaraderie into her life. She always found delight in trying her luck at the local casinos with her mother, sisters, son, daughter, and nieces.  In retirement, she continued to share her giving spirit and compassion for others by cooking for her family and the residents of Sterling Village, where she resided. 

Sharon's greatest joy came from spending time with her loving family.  She always said that her proudest accomplishment was her four children; Sharon-Sue, Michele, Michael, and Stacy.  She particularly cherished her grandchildren, whose presence brought immense happiness to her life.  From creating lasting memories to showering them with love, Sharon's bond with her grandchildren was truly special and held a place of deep significance in her heart.

Sharon is predeceased by her father, Lawrence Hibbard; mother, Isabel Hibbard; sister, Gertie Lehnert; sister, Lauretta Barbaglia; brother, John Hibbard; son-in-law, James Hoelzel; and former husband, Michael A. Viotto.

She is survived by her sister, Diana Hibbard; her four children; Sharon Hoelzel, Michele (Peter) Robinson, Michael (Andrea) Viotto, and Stacy (Jennifer) Viotto; ten beloved grandchildren; James Ryan, Grace, Emily, Peter Jr, Matthew, Bridget (Sean), Brian, Vincent, Angelina, and Luke; and four great-grandchildren, Bella, Dylan, George, and Blakel; all of whom will miss her greatly.

A visitation will be held on Tuesday, May 30, 2023, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Higgins Home for Funerals, located at 752 Mountain Blvd, Watchung, NJ. The funeral service will take place on Wednesday, May 31, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. at the funeral home. Following the service, an interment will be held at Hillside Cemetery in Scotch Plains, NJ.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made to the Wounded Warrior Project [link] or Disabled Veterans of America [link]

Contributions to these organizations will honor Sharon's compassionate spirit and support to veterans in need.