Sherri L Porter

Sherri passed away on Thursday, February 19, 2026, at the age of 71, after many years of living with Multiple Sclerosis and, more recently, renal failure.

A 1973 graduate of Eastern High School in Middletown, Kentucky, Sherri excelled academically, earning nearly straight A’s and induction into the National Honor Society. She was active in the Beta, Math, German, and Red Cross Clubs. She went on to attend the University of Kentucky, where she majored in Clothing, Textiles, and Merchandising and distinguished herself as an exceptional student. During her time at UK, Sherri was a member of the Kentucky Babes, a women’s auxiliary group that marched with sabers alongside the Pershing Rifles, the ROTC Honor Guard. Her participation in this group was a point of pride and a cherished part of her college years.

In 1994, Sherri was honored with the title of Kentucky Colonel, the highest distinction bestowed by the Commonwealth of Kentucky—an acknowledgment of her character, service, and contributions.

While at the University of Kentucky, Sherri met her former husband, and together they welcomed one son, Brandon, who later pursued a career in IT. Sherri spent many years working in the food brokerage industry and later at Kentucky Higher Education, where she held roles in accounting and customer service.

Sherri was a gifted seamstress with a natural eye for design. She was also a wonderful cook, a piano player, and an enthusiastic gardener—especially fond of flowers. She adored her cats and dogs, enjoyed classic television and movies, and loved reminiscing about her childhood. She delighted in exploring the internet, discovering quirky comics, reading about conspiracy theories, and indulging her love of all things vintage. She also enjoyed collecting calendars, watching birds, and savoring chocolate, potato chips, and Coke.

Sherri is survived by her son, Brandon Porter; her older brother, John Philip Gaddie; and her younger sister, Jo Alyson (Jodi) Gaddie English. She was preceded in death by her parents; her brother, Paul Ray Gaddie; and her sisters, Anna Marie (Gaddie) Huffman and Lola Faye Yopp (“Cookie”).