Sharon Ward Kohan

The world lost a bright light and a big heart on March 9, 2023 with the passing of wife and friend Sherry, Sharon, Ward Kohan. After an incredibly courageous and hard fought battle with cancer Sherry passed away at home with her loving husband Rick by her side.

Sherry was born in Washington DC to Kent and Nancy Cramer Ward. She grew up with her two sisters and brother in the DC suburb of Bethesda, MD. Sherry graduated from Bethesda Chevy Chase High School in Bethesda and worked as a systems analyst for GEICO. It was at GEICO where Sherry met the love of her life and husband of more than 32 years, Rick. After a long-distance courtship Rick and Sherry were married and settled in Charlotte, NC. Rick and Sherry called Charlotte home until relocating to Raleigh in 2009.

While living in Charlotte Sherry worked for the Board of Elections. There she created many meaningful and lasting relationships including the friendship with her best friend Suzanne Kerr. Befriending Sherry was easy. Her warm smile and kind heart endeared her to all she met.

In addition to her husband Rick, Sherry is survived by her sister Susan Howard and husband Chuck, sister Sally Ward and husband Malcolm Wesselink, and brother Bob Ward. She is also survived by sister-in-law Jane Ullrich and husband Jerry, sister-in-law George Moss, sister-in-law Annette Dudukovich and husband Gary, sister-in law Jeannie Kohan, and brother-in-law Mike Kohan and wife Marian. Sherry was blessed with many nieces, nephews, grand-nieces and grand-nephews whom were very special to her.

Sherry had a most special place in her heart for animals, specifically cats. She took in a number of neighborhood strays over the years as well as rescuing numerous others. Sherry’s cats were part of the family.

In addition to spending time with her family, Sherry loved shopping. She was always immaculately dressed in the latest styles and her home was always beautifully furnished. Her shopping adventures with friends were filled with laughter and often resulted in a good story or two. Sherry had a keen sense of humor and loved to joke, right to the end.

Sherry lived a life of service based on deeply held spiritual principles. She freely gave her time, support, and love to those in need. As a result, she truly lived a life of purpose. Sherry was always filled with gratitude, kindness, loyalty, perseverance, courage and love.

Sherry’s favorite place was the beach. She loved the warm sun on her face and the sand between her toes. She and Rick escaped there whenever possible. Many wonderful memories were created during time spent at the beach with family and friends.

Sherry’s family is most grateful for the kind and compassionate care she received the past few years. They would like to extend a special thank you to UNC Chapel Hill Cancer Center staff and 3HC home health and hospice care.

Family and friends are invited to attend a Celebration of Life Ceremony at the Doubletree Suites in Charlotte, NC on Saturday, April 15th at 11:00am with a family visitation starting at 10:00am. A reception and luncheon will follow the service and is open to all.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Sherry’s honor to your favorite pet foundation.

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