Sheri Carpenter, beloved daughter, sister, and friend, passed away on January 30th at the age of 58. Her departure leaves a silence that feels impossibly vast, a space once filled with her laughter, her wit, and the unmistakable warmth of her presence.
Sheri was born on September 19th in
Charleston, West Virginia, and from the very beginning she moved through the world with a radiant spirit that drew people to her. She had a gift for creating connection-real, meaningful, lasting. Her infectious laughter was the kind that filled entire rooms, and her fierce loyalty to those she loved made her a steady anchor in the lives of family and friends.
She is survived by her mother, Susan Weslander; her partner, Bob Griffin; her sister, Shannon Kirk; her brother, Ken Weslander, along with his partner, Ali Nykiel, and their son, Rennick; and her uncle, David Hoffman. She is also survived by her lifelong best friend, Lisa Tully, whose bond with Sheri began at age five and endured through every season of life. Additionally, she is survived by Brooke Cantrell-who was like a daughter to her in every way that mattered-and Brooke's three children, Jackson, Levi, and Wyatt, who lovingly called her "Gammaw Sheri."
Sheri's devotion to her family, especially to her brother and sister, was unwavering. She showed up with her whole heart, whether in celebration, in challenge, or in everyday moments that become cherished memories. She made those around her feel supported, understood, and strong. She lived with humor, honesty, and an incredibly generous spirit.
Knowing her was a gift, and her love left an imprint that changed us forever.
Though her absence leaves a void that can never be filled, Sheri's life continues to echo in the stories we tell, in the laughter she sparked in us, and in the indelible impression she left on our souls. Her legacy lives on in the countless small acts of kindness she offered so effortlessly and in the deep connections she nurtured throughout her life.
She will be deeply, forever missed.