Sherry Marie Smith

Sherry was an incredible mentor to me when I worked with her at SUPERVALU and had such a positive impact on my career. I am so sorry about her passing. My sincere condolences to the family.

A Reflection on the Life and Legacy of Sherry Smith

"Give people their flowers while they are still walking amongst us."
- A truth our ancestors birthed with brilliance.

When I reflect on this sentiment, I´m reminded of the people in life who plant seeds to help us blossom, those who tend to the needs of others with compassion, care, and joy.

Yesterday, we gathered to celebrate the life and legacy of Sherry Marie Smith August 12, 1961 - July 1, 2025

It is with full hearts that we honor Sherry-a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, friend, executive, community leader, and champion for equity. She was smart, strong-willed, fiercely independent, and deeply grounded in purpose and grace. She carried wisdom born from a life of breaking down barriers for women in finance and business throughout her career while raising a beautiful and loving family. She inspired all who had the gift of knowing her.

Sherry brought light and leadership to our Teach for America Twin Cities Board of Directors. She believed in the transformative power of education, not just because of what it meant in her life, but because of what she saw in her children, grandchildren, and the young people around her, including friends of her children who were TFA Corps Members.

Three lessons I carry with me from Sherry:

1. The Power of Connection
Sherry made time for people. She saw you. She listened with depth, honored your voice, and offered mentorship centered in lived wisdom. Being with her made you feel appreciated and valued.

2. Leadership with Clarity and Care
Sherry created her own archetype of leadership: sharp, compassionate, and unafraid. She asked great questions, got to the heart of the matter, and challenged with love. She held space for tough conversations and always made others better.

3. Joy as a Guiding Force
She lived with joy and intention-whether curating trips with family and friends, serving on our board, or loving her grandchildren. She laughed often, celebrated the small and big moments, and reminded us never to take ourselves too seriously. Joy wasn´t just an accessory; it was part of how she led and lived.

I´m deeply grateful for the opportunity I had to connect with Sherry on Friday, June 27th. We held our annual board member reflection conversation and talked about the year ahead, her impact, and our shared purpose. I´m thankful that Dr. Levi Downs, TFA Twin Cities Board Chair, and I were able to give her "her flowers" and highlight her impact for the year. We celebrated her wisdom, accomplishments, and unwavering service.

Sherry will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

Rest in Power, Sherry.

May we continue planting seeds in our community, growing the leadership of our students, families, educators, and advocates-in honor of your legacy.

I have so many fond high school memories with Sherry. Our paths crossed many times during each of our careers as well. She was a good friend, a wonderful person, and achieved success both personally and professionally. I am saddened by her passing. Sending sympathy and love to her family.

Sherry was such a great leader who cared for her team members. I am truly grateful for the impact she had on my career. My sincere condolences to the family and know that she will not be forgotten.

Sherry was a dear friend. Always there for me and the people she loved. She was kind and just was an amazing person.
She went out of her way to help my family and I when my husband Scott was diagnosed with Melanoma Cancer. She was gracious enough to let us stay at her cabin so we could process all that was happening. I will be forever grateful for her support and her friendship. I will miss her.
No words to express how deeply sorry I am to hear of her passing. My heart goes out to all of the family.

Sherry worked tirelessly to achieve so much at work, while keeping her family as her first priority. So few can do that...and with such grace! I also remember seeing her play golf one day...and wondered "Is there any thing Sherry Smith can't do?!" So sorry for the family to lose her so young.

Sherry had an outstanding business career that benefitted many. She was an excellent example to new associates who saw her work hard, achieve results and continue to grow. She was a delight to work with.
So sorry she passed away at such a young age-our condolences!

Sherry was a tremendous leader and wonderful colleague. So sad to learn of her passing. My condolences to her family!

Sherry was a true inspiration to me and many others who pursued careers in accounting and finance. May she rest in peace. My sincere condolences to her family and friends.

Travis, Stephanie, Jessie, and families, Don and my hearts are broken. Your Mom was such a beautiful person who loved her family fiercely! She touched so many with her kindness and will be missed by all. Our most sincere condolences go to each of you! All our love, Don and Deanna

Sherry was the consummate professional on the SuperValu team, in addition to being wonderful person with a warm heart. She will be missed.
Our condolences and prayers go out to her entire family.
John and Colleen Hooley

Sherry was a friend and colleague at SUPERVALU for many years.
My condolences to the family.
Mike

Travis, Stephanie and Jessie sending my condolences and love during time. Your mom was always such a strong and smart female presence and I definitely admired her. We hope you feel the prayers and love from all the Lucas family.