Stephen M. Shululu, Sr.

Stephen M. Shululu, Sr., beloved husband, father, educator, and community leader, passed away peacefully on October 28, 2024. He was born on January 1, 1937, in Bulungwa, Tanzania, to Father Matthaius Mashimi Chizi and mother, Agatha Kalekwa Lembeli.

Stephen was deeply grounded in his family.  He is survived by his cherished wife of 58 years, Marsha Shululu, and their children: Stephen M. Shululu, Jr., Kalekwa Clive,  Dr. Rehema (David) Underwood and Furaha (Daphne) Shululu.  He was a proud grandfather to Aleeyah Clive, Dante Shululu, Arianna Shululu, Chaenaya Underwood and Anthony Underwood and great-grandfather to Maelani Clive.  His family also includes his half-brothers and half-sisters: the late Lucia Chizi, the late Germana Chizi, the late Angela Chizi, the late Paul Chizi, Marco Chizi and Sophia Chizi.

Baptized at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Parish in Kahama, Tanzania, his Catholic faith remained a cornerstone of his life.

After completing his primary and secondary education in Tanzania, Stephen entered the political arena, advocating for the democratic independence of Tanzania from British rule. In 1959, he had the honor of working alongside Julius Nyerere, who later became the first president of the newly independent Tanzania. In 1960, following a scholarship to Ithaca College, Stephen arrived in the United States during the presidency of John F. Kennedy. He graduated in 1964 with a Bachelor's degree in Political Science and continued his studies, earning a Master's degree in Economics from the New School for Social Research in 1970. During his time at the New School, he also taught Swahili to Peace Corps volunteers at Columbia University from 1966 to 1967.

After completing his education, Stephen taught economics at Fordham University and St. John’s University. For 14 years, he and his wife, Marsha Shululu built a vibrant life together in Manhattan and the Bronx, surrounded by UN ambassadors, artists, and intellectuals.

In 1981, Stephen and his family relocated to Spencer, NY,  where he worked for the Ithaca Journal, followed by his role at the George Junior Republic facility for teenagers and men until his retirement in 2004. His passion for working with young people was evident in the mutual respect and admiration they held for him.

Stephen was a devoted family man and a lifelong Catholic, with a deep love for choir music. He was also actively involved in the community, lending his support to the Lions Club in Spencer, NY.

Stephen is also survived by his extended family, including his brother-in-law Dr. Richard (Doris) Miller,  Alvin (Rosa) Miller and his late sister-in-law Kathleen Tanner.  He leaves behind nieces and nephews Gofhaone Tau, Isaiah Tau, Jediah Tau, the late Shelona Tau, Carin (Scott) Clingan and late niece Courtney Miller, as well as many other cherished relatives and friends in Tanzania and the United States including Aaron Sousa and family, former daughter-in-law Heidi Grap and family, and former son-in-law Timothy Clive and family.

Stephen M. Shululu, Sr. leaves an enduring legacy of dedication to education, family, and faith. His wisdom will be remembered by all those who were fortunate to know him.  May he rest in peace.

Funeral mass will be held at 10am on Monday, November 4, 2024 at The Immaculate Conception Church, 113 N Geneva St. in Ithaca, NY. with a repass to follow.  Flowers can be sent to the church for the Shululu Family.