Ruth Delores Burson Sherrel

1918 - 2014

Ruth Delores Burson Sherrel

Ruth Delores Burson Sherrel passed away on Friday May 16, 2014 in Marianna, Florida, her home for over 70 years. She was born in Liberal, Missouri, April 18, 1918, daughter of John O. and Nellie Burson, from Mt. Vernon, Missouri. She and her husband, Wendell E. (Bill) Sherrel made their home in Marianna, Fl., coming during World War II, and remaining to become strong members of the community and the First Presbyterian Church.

She and Bill were married on October 23, 1938 in Tulsa, Oklahoma, living first in Missouri and Mississippi for a few years before coming to Marianna. They remained there until their deaths, where both were involved in community affairs. Although Ruth had worked in a bank in Missouri, she became a full time devoted mother, staying very involved in her children's school and community activities. When the youngest son, Tom left home for college, son John was beginning his construction business in Marianna, and she went to work with him. She continued her volunteer work with the Jackson Hospital Auxiliary, the Marianna Women's Club, and the First Presbyterian Church. During this time, she was a member of the Thursday afternoon bridge club, which had several members who played together for over 60 years.

It was at the church that she began another career as an inspiration to many members with a ladies exercise class. She taught the class for many years, resulting in a video being produced for the members to use. Her commitment to her children, her family, and community helped maintain her interest in life. She became an Elder in the church, worked on the Bicentennial Cook Book Committee, and continued the exercise class, well into her 90's.

Her husband Wendell E. Sherrel, and two children, Jeanne Ann and John Burson Sherrel Sr. preceded Ruth in death. She is survived by her three children William E. (Billy) Sherrel, Ruth (Robert) Bass, and Dr. Joseph Thomas (Georganne) Sherrel, and

grandchildren John Burson Sherrel, Victor (Sarah) Sherrel, Brooks Sherrel, great-grandson Owen Sherrel, and step-grandson Jess Glenn. She is also survived by her brother Gerye (Mary Pat) Burson of Blue Springs, Missouri, sister-in-law Jane Burson of Aurora, Missouri, plus numerous nephews, nieces and their families.

A memorial service will be held on Sunday, May 18, 2014, 2:00 p.m. at the First Presbyterian Church in Marianna, Florida. In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to the First Presbyterian Church, 4437 Clifton Street, Marianna, Fl. 32446-3436 or Jackson Hospital Foundation, P.O. Box 1608, Marianna, Fl. 32447. James & Sikes Funeral Home, Maddox Chapel of Marianna, Florida will direct.

James & Sikes Funeral Home

Maddox Chapel

4278 Lafayette Street

Marianna, Fl 32446

850.482.2332

http://www.jamesandsikesfuneralhomes.com/