Sheryl Carver Shank

Sheryl Carver Shank, a beloved wife, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on December 13, 2025, at the age of 74, due to natural causes. Her journey began on May 17, 1951, in Maryville, Tennessee, where she was born to Gardner Carver and Martha Buck. Sheryl’s warm spirit and compassionate heart touched the lives of everyone she met, leaving behind a legacy of love and kindness.

Sheryl graduated from Great Bridge High School in 1970 and continued her education at Tidewater Community College. She was a dedicated professional, skilled as an electronic technician and quality assurance technician, primarily working for government contractors, including Raytheon. Her meticulous attention to detail and strong work ethic earned her the respect and admiration of her colleagues.

On November 5, 1977, Sheryl married the love of her life, Dennis Shank, in Chesapeake, Virginia. Their bond was a testament to love and partnership, and together they created a life filled with laughter, joy, and unwavering support for one another. Dennis was by her side through all of life’s journeys, providing her with love and solace, especially during her final days.

Sheryl was preceded in death by her parents, Martha Buck and Gardner Carver, her sister, Gloria Adams, and her brother, Michael Reynolds. She leaves behind a loving family that includes her devoted husband, Dennis Shank of Virginia Beach, Virginia; her sisters, Rebecca Bowmen and her husband James (JL) Bowman of Moreauville, Louisiana, and Cynthia Raza and her husband Walter Raza of Hawkinsville, Georgia; and her stepfather, Carlton Buck of Chesapeake, Virginia. Her family remembers her as a source of strength and inspiration, always ready to lend an ear or a helping hand.

A graveside service will be held in her honor on December 19, 2025, at 2:00 PM at Forest Lawn Cemetery, located on Granby Street in Norfolk, Virginia. Family and friends are invited to join together to celebrate Sheryl’s life and to share in the memories that will forever hold a special place in our hearts.

Prior to the service, there will be a viewing and visitation on Thursday, December 18, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Smith and Williams Funeral Home on Princess Anne Road. This time will allow family and friends to come together, reflect, and honor the beautiful life that Sheryl lived.

As we remember Sheryl, let us carry forward her legacy of love, compassion, and resilience. She will be profoundly missed, but her spirit will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of all who knew her.