Sherry Smith

Sherry Joan Smith, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend passed away on September 20, 2025 at the age of 71 at her home in Lennox. Sherry brought warmth and love to everyone who knew her. She was a strong and persevering individual who approached life's challenges with grace and determination. And her life was a testament to resilience, strength and a deep commitment to her family. Born January 22, 1954 to Wilbur and Elsie Nylen, Sherry was the youngest of six children. At the age of nine, the family moved to Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Sherry's educational journey took her through Washington High School, where she blossomed into the strong, smart and beautiful person that friends and family came to know and love. And her career spanned various roles, including positions at Old Home Bakery, Qwest, and Cigna where her hardworking nature and caring demeanor left a lasting impression on colleagues. In 1982, Sherry met the love of her life, Eric Smith. And after a few years of courtship, they were married on August 7, 1985 at the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally – a perfect reflection of her adventurous spirit and passion for life. A woman of many passions, Sherry found joy in sewing, embroidery, nurturing plants and spoiling her Rottweilers. Her love for Harley-Davidson motorcycles was more than just a hobby; it was a lifestyle that embodied her free spirit and adventurous heart. Sherry's characteristics were as multifaceted as her interests – she was caring, loving, and beautiful inside and out. Her legacy will live on in the hearts of many, as she touched the lives of those around her with her kindness and compassion. Sherry was preceded in death by her parents, Wilbur and Elsie Nylen, her niece Tammi Nelson, and sister Kay Gassman. She is survived by her devoted husband, Eric Smith, and her beloved children, Shannah (Jesse) Schriever, Eric Smith, and Evan (Moe) Smith – each of whom carries a piece of her heart and legacy; her precious grandchildren, Jaiden (Malik) Pfeifer, Jaysen Schriever, Jesse Schriever, and Samantha Schriever; her cherished great-grandchildren, Genevieve Pfeifer, Marcellus Pfeifer and Illiana Schriever; her siblings, Val (Connie) Nylen, Judy (Duane) Peterson, Brad (Deb) Nylen, and Nicki (Rick) Singleton, brother-in-law, Tim Gassman as well as many nieces and nephews. Sherry will be dearly missed but will forever remain in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her spirit will continue to inspire strength and resilience in the days to come. Missed beyond words. Loved beyond measure. We'll love you forever We'll like you for always As long as we're living Our Mommy you'll be