Theda Ann Muhlhauser, 73, of Waxhaw, North Carolina, passed away on Sunday, September 13, 2026.

Theda was born on October 18, 1952, in Queens, New York, to the late Samuel Unger and Evelyn Beerman Unger. She grew up in Jackson Heights, Queens, alongside her brothers Martin and Wayne. The three shared the experiences, adventures and memories that come with growing up together creating a lifelong bond that remained an important part of Theda's life.

Theda dedicated many years of her life to her career as a dietitian at Goldwater Hospital, where she worked until her retirement.

Theda loved Broadway shows, reading, music, and shopping, but anyone who knew her knew that she especially loved to talk! She truly never met a stranger. Whether she had known you for years or had just met you, Theda could strike up a conversation and happily talk with you for hours if you let her. Her outgoing personality, warmth, and ability to connect with people were part of what made her so special and memorable.

More than anything, Theda loved spending time with her family. She shared an incredibly special bond with her mother, Evelyn Unger, who was truly her best friend. That same closeness continued with Theda’s only daughter, Selena, who was not just her daughter but also one of her very best friends. Their relationship was filled with love, friendship, conversations, laughter, and countless memories together.

Being a grandmother brought Theda tremendous joy. She loved spending time with her five grandchildren, Ryan, Ava, Camryn, Jake, and Taylor, and especially enjoyed sitting down and playing board games with them. Those simple times together became some of the special family moments she treasured most.

Theda also cherished the life she shared with her loving husband, Eric. Among their favorite memories were their vacations together in Aruba, where they could relax, enjoy each other’s company, and make memories in a place that became very special to them.

Theda loved her family and friends deeply, and she made sure the people in her life knew it. She will be remembered for her love of conversation, her outgoing personality, her devotion to her family, and the way she could make a friend almost anywhere she went. The many stories, laughs, conversations, vacations, games, and everyday moments shared with her will be treasured by those who loved her.

Theda is survived by her loving husband, Eric Muhlhauser; her only daughter, Selena (Kirk) Watters; her five grandchildren, Ryan Watters, Ava Watters, Camryn Watters, Jake Watters, and Taylor Watters; and her two brothers, Wayne Unger and Martin Unger.

Friends and family will be welcomed for a celebration of Theda’s life it will be held between the hours of 12 p.m. to 7 pm on Wednesday, September 30, 2026, at 1700 Millbridge Parkway, Waxhaw NC 28173.

Online condolences may be made through the Gordon Funeral Service website.

Gordon Funeral Service & Crematory, 1904 Lancaster Avenue, Monroe, NC 28112, is honored to be entrusted with the care of the Muhlhauser family.