Carmela Galvan

Carmela “Lina” Galvan (Fillar, Zarb), age 80, passed away peacefully on Easter Sunday, April 20, 2025, surrounded by her loved ones. A devoted mother, proud grandmother, and beloved Buz Nanna (great-grandmother), Lina leaves behind a legacy of love, resilience, and unwavering dedication to her family.

Lina was born in Malta to Luiguia (Farrugia) and Anthony Zarb and spent her childhood in the town of Msida alongside her five siblings: George (Gloria), Salvatore “Sonny” (Connie), Mary Rose (Richard), Josephine (Dennis), and Norma (Richard). She immigrated to the United States as a young girl and proudly became a U.S. citizen in 1965—embracing a new life with courage and determination while always keeping her Maltese heritage close to her heart.

She was the loving mother of Jamie Galvan (Christopher Acea), Curtis Fillar (Amanda), Eric Fillar (Jennifer), and George Fillar (Gina), and devoted mother-in-law to Carrie Fillar. Her grandchildren—George Anthony, Abbigayle, Seth, Olivia (Latrell), Bailey (Ben), Eric James (Isabelle), Caprii, and Gia—were her pride and joy. Lina was also blessed to be Buz Nanna to Isabella Lucille and Raquel Kaia, who brought her endless joy.

In addition to her immediate family, Lina was an adored aunt to 29 nieces and nephews, each of whom she loved and cherished wholeheartedly. Her gentle presence and kind spirit touched generations of her extended family.

Lina worked tirelessly as a seamstress for Admiral Industries for 25 years, all while providing everything she could for her boys. She was a constant source of encouragement—always in the stands cheering at their games, making life fun at every turn, and always finding time to care for her father and spend time with her mother. Her strength, generosity, and spirit of devotion never wavered.

Lina married Larry Fillar on December 27, 1969. She was cherished by her in-laws, Leo and Stella Fillar. Together they raised their boys in Southwest Detroit before moving to East Detroit in 1984, Larry’s hometown. They introduced their sons to the sport of wrestling, which became a cornerstone of the family’s culture. Lina was beloved among the wrestling community—cheering, praying, and supporting every kid like they were her own (unless, of course, they were wrestling one of her boys!). Her voice could always be heard throughout any gym, and her love and dedication to the sport lives on in her family today.

In her later years, Lina and her beloved husband Elias “Leo” Galvan were inseparable. Together, they became loving parents to Jamie Lynn and dedicated themselves wholeheartedly to their church community. Their faith, love, and generosity touched many and brought comfort and warmth to all who knew them.

She is preceded in death by her husband Elias C. Galvan and former husband Larry Fillar.

Lina spent her final years living with Jaime, first in Southwest Detroit and later in Dearborn Heights, Michigan, with Jaime and Christopher. They lovingly cared for Lina, and the bond between mother and daughter was something truly special—Jaime was the daughter she always wanted, and her heart was full because of that love.

Known for her warm heart, strength, and the deep love she poured into every part of her life, Lina will be remembered as the heart of her family—a source of comfort, wisdom, and unconditional love. She was like a second mother to many, and a friend to all.

It is no surprise that at the end of her journey, Lina chose to donate her earthly body to medical research. She often said she didn’t want people fussing over her in a casket—what she really wanted was for loved ones to get together more often, not just at weddings and funerals. She joked about it until her final days.

To honor her wishes, the family will not be hosting a traditional visitation, but will celebrate her life on Wednesday, May 21, at St. Malachy Catholic Church in Sterling Heights, Michigan. She will lie in state beginning at 10:30 AM, with the memorial Mass at 11:00 AM. A luncheon will follow.

In lieu of cards or flowers, please consider making a donation or volunteering in her honor to Meals on Wheels. Lina looked forward every day to visits from her MOW friend Dennis—these daily check-ins were the highlight of her days, both at home and in the hospital.

She will be deeply missed and forever held in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.