Sherrel Celeste Smith

Sherrel C Smith passed away on May 28, 2026, at the age of 95. She was residing at O’Conner Woods in Stockton California at the time of her death. She was born in Hanford California on February 17, 1931, and lived in Fresno California.

She is proceeded in death by her husband Kenneth W Smith. Surviving her are her two sons Ken Smith and his wife Lisa Smith of Stockton California and Clifford Smith and his wife Johnelle Smith of San Leandro California. She also is survived by four grandchildren.

She met her husband Wayne Smith while working at a Drug Store soda fountain in Fresno. Wayne’s family-owned a nearby gas station. They were married for 30 years until Wayne’s death in 1978. He was the love of her life, and she never remarried.

Sherry worked in various medical offices before the birth of her sons and then again later in life but always really saw herself as a mom. She was someone that formed lifelong friendships, none more special than her friendship with Helen ”Biddy Buddy” Fantz which started in high school and lasted their entire lives.

They had the capability of burning up a phone line and if you called Sherry’s number and then Helens and they were both busy you knew it was going to be a little while before you were going to get through.

Sherry lived in the same house for 70 years and lived independently until she was 92, much to the chagrin of her family. She was, shall we say, a little stubborn and adamant about being independent.

She was crazy about her four grandchildren Kaymi, David, Abigail and Samantha. She always tried to pick out the perfect gift on gift giving occasions and attended as many important life events as possible. Her home reflected her love of her grandchildren, with every spare space containing a picture.

Sherry had a deep love for animals and for most of her life was surrounded by cats. Her cats extended lives reflected her level of care (Mr. Smith and Tuffy lived into their 20’s). After she stopped having pets in her home, she turned her attention to the outside. All the local strays knew where they could go for a meal. Our apologies to the family who bought her house.

We would like to thank the staff at O’Conner Woods who provided such excellent care and love in her final two years. We would also like to thank her care team from Seva Hospice who made sure she was comfortable in the last few months of her life.

Forever in our hearts, we love you mom.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to the Fistula Foundation or your favorite charity.