Sherry Lea Moonen

Sherry Lea Connell Moonen

March 11, 1954 – February 26, 2026

For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but ever lasting life. John 3:16 kjv

Sherry was born March 11, 1954 in Canastota, New York to Ivan Louis Moonen and Wava Mary Ward Moonen. Sherry's family made their home in Oneida, New York. Sherry graduated, with honors, from Oneida High School. Later she moved to Pearland, Texas.

Sherry chose The University of Houston to begin her pharmaceutical career. The classes, determination, and assistance from university peers earned her many degrees and achievement awards. They include Bachelor of Science, Residency in Pharmacy Practice, and Master of Science in Pharmacy. Included are Member of Beta Omerion Chapter, Certificate of Recognition in American Institute of the History of Pharmacy. In addition, The Texas Board of Pharmacy Certificate and The Board of Pharmacy for the State of Florida are displayed in her home.

Sherry passed away Tuesday, February 24, 2026 in Lakeland Regional Hospital, Lakeland, Florida. Sherry's Saviour, Jesus Christ, welcomed her with opened arms. Her faith in The Lord God and her Saviour Jesus Christ guided her through seventy-one years of life on earth. Sherry resides in heaven. Sherry's Grandmother led her to Christ's salvation. Her husband, families, and friends were always cherished.

Billy Joe Connell and Sherry met through a dating service June 1995. Their first date was at Carrabba's Restaurant, July 1995. The date became marriage on September 18, 1999 at the First Baptist Church of Manvel, Manvel, Texas. They made their home in Lakeland, Florida. "B.J.", employed with Generetec International Corporation as Production Quality Control. Sherry continued the pharmaceutical career with Publix Corporation.

Sherry's hobbies included University of Houston football and basketball home games. Her Grandfather taught her the game of baseball. Sitting in front of the radio, drawing the diamond on large cardboard, placing items for bases and players on it, he explained the game to his granddaughter. GO NEW YORK YANKEES! Travel, photography, needle point, antique collection, and puzzles of one thousand pieces were her joy in life.

Sherry was an avid handgun collector and revolver shooter. She was the member of The National Rifle Association, The Colt Collectors Association, and former member in the Lakeland Rifle and Pistol Club.

Sherry is preceded in death by her parents, Ivan Louis Moonen and Wava Mary Ward Moonen; daughter in law, Linda Raynore Moonen. Father-in-Law and Mother-in-Law, Billy Bryant Connell and Eva Mae Powell Connell; Sister-in-Law, Nova Jane Connell; Nephew, Matthew James Connell.

Left to cherish her memory are her husband of 26 years, 5 months, 6 days, Billy Joe Connell; son, Aaron Bradley Connell (wife) Angela; Brother-in-law; Randall Wayne Connell (wife) Arelene; grandsons, Cody Lane Connell, Cameron Tyler Connell, Jayden Munoz; granddaughter, Gabriella Munoz; nephew, Jason Wayne Connell (wife) Gabriella; sons, Jackson Connell, Harrison Connell. Brother-in-Law; Vaughn Louis Moonen; son, Michael Louis Moonen, Brian Charles Moonen; Daughters, Francine Moonen, Theresa Hopkins, Kelly Moonen.

The Connell and Moonen Families would like to express a special "Thank You" to the Doctors, Nurses, and Care Teams at Tampa General Hospital including Lakeland Regional Hospital. "Thank You" Lakeland Fire Department for providing the transport during Sherry's time of need.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the organization of your choice.