Sherry Ann Saffeels

Sherry Ann Saffeels passed away on November 8, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. Born on December 28, 1946, in Kellogg, Idaho, Sherry was the heart and soul of her family — a woman whose love, humor, and strength left an unforgettable mark on everyone she met.

She grew up in the Silver Valley area and lived there until 1980, when she moved to Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. Sherry was the daughter of Melvin Herbert Quimby and Edna Violet Maciosek (Hoffman), both of whom preceded her in death. Also preceding her was her older sister Kathleen Quimby, baby daughter Alison Smeltzer and stepson JJ Saffeels.

On July 17, 2020, Sherry was baptized as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses — a milestone that brought her deep peace and purpose.

Throughout her life, Sherry dedicated herself to caring for others. In her later years, she lovingly cared for her grandmother-in-law, father-in-law, stepfather, and her sister’s mother-in-law, among many others. Her compassion knew no bounds.

Sherry’s life was anything but ordinary. A devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, she lived with unshakable independence and an open heart. She walked her own path — spirited, unorthodox, and full of warmth. Whether offering a helping hand, listening without judgment, or finding small ways to brighten someone’s day, Sherry gave freely — not because she had to, but because generosity was part of who she was.

As a mother, she was both the anchor and the light — strong when strength was needed, gentle when love was called for. As a grandmother and great-grandmother, she was a storyteller, cheerleader, and safe haven. Her laughter filled every room, her hugs healed countless hearts, and her legacy of love will continue to ripple through generations.

Sherry taught all who knew her that life doesn’t have to be perfect to be beautiful — that it’s okay to live differently, to love boldly, and to give without keeping score. Her spirit will live on in every act of kindness, every burst of laughter, and every expression of love shared by those she touched.

Sherry is survived by her beloved dog, Shadow; her daughters Marilyn Buroker (Kelly) of Coeur d’Alene and Melanie White of Hayden; and her stepdaughters Kelly Paul (Tom) of Coeur d’Alene, Stacy Saffeels of Spokane, and Sarah Murphy (Scott) of Coeur d’Alene. She is also survived by her brothers Mel Quimby (Lori) of Coeur d’Alene and Frank Maciosek of Pinehurst, her sister Karen Bergland (Tom) of Spokane, ten grandchildren (Joshua Arvizu, Anthony Dunham, Brandon Buroker, Ben Buroker, Ed Waller, Matt Waller, and Ty Zink, Justin Murphy, Lilly Murphy and Jenna Paul), eleven great-grandchildren, and eight nieces and nephews.