Sherry Avon LEFLER

LEFLER, Sherry Avon

62, died Feb. 25, 2015 at Redington Shores, drowning near her home. Born Jan. 19, 1953 in Hempstead, NY, she spent much of her early years outside the U.S. including Frankfurt, Hong Kong, Tokyo, and Paris. She started college in Paris and graduated from The University of North Texas. After living in Denver and San Diego, she settled in Largo. She married Tom Shaughnessy in 1987, divorcing several years later. She eventually moved to Redington Shores where she loved "her beach", the beautiful sunrises and sunsets, and the wonderful bird population. Sherry loved animals, particularly her cat "sweet Jolie", and volunteered at the local SPCA. She was adventurous and always up for something new - jet skiing, parasailing, lately a stained glass class - and travel. She took trips to Russia, Peru, and most recently, Israel. Sherry was part of the Chofu Alumni Association, a group of military and other "brats" who attended school in Chofu, Japan. She attended several reunions with the group, including on Mt. Hood, OR in September. Sherry was predeceased by her parents, Tom Lefler Jr and Helen Lefler. She is survived by her brother, Tom; sister-in-law, Val; and niece and nephew, Alix and Zach, all of Portland, OR, as well as numerous cousins. The family suggests that in lieu of flowers, friends consider making a donation in Sherry's name to either the church that she attended and that was an important part of her life, Grace Christian Fellowship, 901 Ridge Road SW, Largo, FL 33770, or to your local SPCA. The family can be reached at PO Box 13726, Portland, OR 97213.