Sherry Dale Johnson, 80, of Peoria, passed away at 1:15 p.m. on Sunday, July 5, 2009, at home, with her family by her side.
Sherry was born on November 8, 1928 in St. Paul, MN, a daughter of Gerald W. and Helen Marie Wilts. Her parents and one brother, Gerald L. Wilts, preceded her in death.
She married Bill J. Garretts on August 8, 1947. Later, she married Edward G. “Eddie” Johnson on July 3, 1982 in Peoria Heights. He survives.
She is also survived by her sons, Steve (Vickie) Garretts of Greeley, CO, Vernon (Kathy) Garretts of Princeville and Larry and Gary Garretts of Peoria; step-daughter, Janet Lea (Mark) Bauer of Davenport, IA; eleven grandchildren, Amber (Greg), Amy, Brandon, Jacob, Stephanie (Corey), Jeremy (Darcy), Scott, Ryan (Kayla), Reed (Ashley), Michele and Bernadette; eight great grandchildren; uncle, Francis (Polly) Wilts of Danville, CA; nieces, Teresa (Jeff) and Lynn; and nephew, Mike (Lisa).
Sherry retired in 1988, as a computer analyst and office manager for Central Illinois Neurological Associates. She was formerly employed as the office manager for Script Pharmaceuticals in Peoria and as a secretary for the Jewish Federation of Peoria.
Sherry enjoyed bowling, bird watching, dancing, reading, watching tennis and college basketball and listening to Elvis Presley, County and Southern Gospel Music. She also enjoyed taking short trips, especially to Colorado, Kentucky and Galena.
She loved her cats, family, church family and grandchildren. Her grandchildren were one of her greatest joys in life. Sherry was very friendly, witty, outgoing and enjoyed life. She loved caring for and encouraging others, fellowshipping with others and will be missed.
Sherry was a member of Christ Bible Church in Creve Coeur, where her memorial service will be at 7 p.m. on Thursday, July 9, 2009, with Pastor Tom Pisano officiating. Visitation will be from 5:30 to 7 p.m., prior to services. The family will host a reception at the church, following services.
Memorial contributions may be made in Sherry’s memory to Christ Bible Church.
Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Clary Funeral Home in Peoria.
granma thank you for everything you have taught me in life and thank you for always being there for us. i will always hold a special place in my heart for . i miss you and most of all i love you. i know in a lot of ways grandma we will always have that special connection between us. love ryan
I have such fond memories of the big smile and warm hugs she always had for me when I would enter the church on Sunday mornings. Although she will be greatly missed I know she has recieved her reward and is now in paradise.
God bless you Sherry!
Michael Pisano
I am celebrating you, Aunt Sherry! What an impact you have had in my life and remembering our time together will always make me smile. It fills my heart with joy to know that you are now being embraced by our Maker. Please give a hug to Dad for me! We are missing you so much and can't wait to see you again, Sherry Dale, where we will be reunited by and with our Heavenly Father.
Ed, Steve, Vernon, Larry, Garry and family, you have been and will continue to be in my constant thoughts and prayers as we remember the strength that we draw from is much larger than anything here on earth. Love to all, Teresa
