Dr. Sherry Harley, a deeply loved daughter, sister, niece, cousin, and friend, passed away on November 20, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family and friends. She will be fondly remembered for her powerful mind, her joyful heart, and her lifelong passion for teaching — a gift she shared generously with everyone she knew. Sherry’s bright, beautiful smile could light up a room, and her warmth made people feel loved just by being in her presence.

Devoted Daughter, Beloved Sister

Sherry often shared how much she adored her father and how grateful she was for the deep closeness she shared with her mother and brother. She carried that same love into her extended family — tracing their ancestry with care and pride, and even creating a family Facebook group and newsletter to keep everyone connected across time and distance. To her relatives near and far, Sherry was a source of love, connection, and belonging.

The Brilliant Mind Sherry possessed an extraordinary memory — one of her greatest true gifts. She could recall dates, names, and details with a precision that amazed everyone around her. When she was sharing what she knew, she was in her element — confident, energized, and absolutely alive. She brought that same spark to her love of trivia and fun, spirited game nights with friends and family. Her mind and her joy in learning made every conversation richer.

The Scholar

Sherry’s academic journey reflected the determination and curiosity that shaped her life. She graduated from Buckingham Browne & Nichols School in Cambridge, MA, before continuing her education at Clark Atlanta University and Tufts University. She later earned her Doctor of Education from Northeastern University — a milestone that brought her tremendous pride. With each step, she deepened her understanding of the world and discovered more of the passions that guided her — a love of learning and a keen awareness of the power of knowledge to change lives.

The Educator & Advocate

While teaching was one of the ways Sherry connected most deeply with others, it was far from the only one. She made learning feel accessible and fun, whether she was encouraging a student to believe in their abilities, helping a friend master a skill, or sharing everyday knowledge with laughter. In Charlotte, Sherry is known as a fierce advocate for women and girls, dedicating her time, voice, and heart to supporting their growth, confidence, and opportunity. She believed deeply in lifting others up and was always willing to show up when someone needed her.

The Friend

Sherry was a grounded and steady presence in the lives of those she loved — a guiding post they could always count on. She worked hard, lived with intention, and poured excellence into everything she committed to. She made her friends feel valued and special, and she built genuine family bonds with them. She had especially joyful relationships with the children of her friends, proudly embracing her role as their honorary aunt. To Sherry, friends were family — and she showed that truth in every check-in, every celebration, and every moment she showed up for the people she held dear.

The Legacy

Sherry’s life was defined by curiosity, compassion, and a deep love for the people around her. Though her time here ended far too soon, the joy and wisdom she shared continue to live on in the lives she touched. Her light still shines: in the memories she created, in the lessons she taught, and in the love she gave so freely.

Dr. Sherry, we thank you for sharing your love and light with us. Your spirit will live in our hearts forever.

Survived By

Sherry is survived by her mother, Lois, and her brother, Allyn, both of Charlotte, NC; her aunts Lottie Childers of Charlotte, NC, Sarah Mae Harley of Blackville, SC, and Anne Harley of DeKalb, IL; her uncles Hardrick Harley of Los Angeles, CA, and Jesse Childers; and a host of cousins.

She was preceded in death by her beloved father, Roosevelt Harley; her paternal grandparents, Wilmer and Gloria Harley; maternal grandparent, Ben and Eliza Childers, and her uncles John Harley, George, and Sammie Harley.

May her spirit rest in peace, and may her memory be a blessing to all who knew her.

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