THOMPSONVILLE – Sherry Lee Howe, 77, of Thompsonville, passed away at her home on June 21, 2025.
She was born on July 6, 1947, to Jack and Pauline (Tinker) Griffin in Chicago, IL. On July 10, 1965, she married Robert James Howe and after 54 years of marriage he preceded her in death on February 19, 2020.
Sherry resided in Chicago until moving to the Chicago suburbs of Oak Lawn in 1968 and then Tinley Park in 1975, where she raised three children. Sherry worked 12 years for the U.S. Postal Service 1982-1994. In 1994, Sherry, her husband and two daughters moved to northern Wisconsin where they operated an eight-cabin resort. In 2003, Sherry, her husband and surviving daughter, relocated to Thompsonville.
Shortly after arriving in southern Illinois, Sherry began her career as an associate at the Benton Walmart. She used her artistic skills in the bakery department to create thousands of beautiful cakes for the community. She was fondly known as “Sherry Berry” by her Walmart family and she retired in 2023.
Sherry was a loving mother and grandmother who cherished spending time with family and friends. Additionally, she enjoyed attending services at the Thompsonville First Baptist Church, participating in church-sponsored activities and making new friends. She loved spending time outdoors watching the wildlife. Sherry’s hobbies included drawing and painting that she won awards for, crafts, puzzles, and playing bingo.
Sherry is survived by her children, Brett (Yolanda) Howe and Laura (Rob) Mercer; three grandchildren: Mandy, Rob and Michael; and her brother, Wayne Griffin and his family.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Jack and Pauline Griffin; her husband, Robert James Howe; and her daughter, Tricia Howe.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Pate Funeral Home, 301 South Main Street, Benton, IL.
Per Sherry’s wishes, cremation will take place.
A memorial service will be held at a time and location to be announced.
Memorial donations may be made to Debra.org and will be accepted at the memorial or mailed directly to D.E.B.R.A. at 1560 Central Ave, Suite 433, St Petersburg, Florida 33705 or at www.Debra.org.
Online condolences can be given at www.patefh.com.