Sheri LeeRay Fernandez, a woman whose laughter could light up the darkest room, took her final bow on August 17, 2024. Born on a sunny day in West Covina, CA, on November 26, 1962, she spent her life spreading joy and seasoning the world with her humor, much like a master chef – which, incidentally, she fancied herself to be in her own kitchen. Sheri’s journey came to a peaceful end in Rapid City, SD, where she was surrounded by the love of her family and the comfort of memories filled with laughter and love.
Sheri’s life was a recipe for happiness: two cups of wit, a dash of sarcasm, and an endless supply of love. She was the matriarch of a vibrant family that includes her children Latosha and Steven Huck, Miranda and Seth Oliver, and Dillon and Ashley Schad. Her grandchildren, Hannah, Hailey, Rihanna, Isaiah, Serenity, Peyton, and Michael, were the sugar in her cup of tea. Sheri’s brothers, Carey and Melinda Grant, and Joe and Margaret Grant, always knew her as the funny bone of the family.
A proud high school graduate, Sheri turned the mundane into the extraordinary with her customer service prowess, first at Waste Management and then at the Hilton Hotel. She had the uncanny ability to make anyone on the phone smile, even while discussing their trash pickup schedule or booking a standard room with a view of the parking lot.
Sheri’s interests were as flavor-packed as her famous Sunday roasts. She loved nothing more than cooking up a storm and sharing an occasional cocktail with friends. Her gatherings were legendary, not just for the food and drinks, but for the belly laughs and the warmth that came from her company. Sheri lived by the mantra, “Life is uncertain. Eat dessert first,” a pearl of wisdom by the great Ernestine Ulmer that she applied both literally and figuratively.
Words like spirited, funny, and loving are tossed around a lot, but Sheri embodied these traits with every fiber of her being. She was the life of every party, even if there wasn’t a party until she arrived. She had a joke for every occasion and could find the humor in almost any situation. Her laughter was infectious, her spirit was indomitable, and her love was unconditional. Sheri was the kind of person who could make you feel like you were the most important person in the world, even if you were just the next in line at the grocery checkout.
Sheri’s comedic timing was impeccable, and she would often quip, “I’m not arguing, I’m just explaining why I’m right,” channeling the sass of a stand-up comedian. Her humor was a gift, a balm for the soul in trying times, and a reminder not to take life too seriously.
As we bid farewell to Sheri LeeRay Fernandez, let’s not say goodbye; let’s say, “See you later,” because someone as unforgettable as Sheri will surely be orchestrating a heavenly hoedown. Her laughter will echo in our hearts, her recipes will continue to nourish our bodies, and her legacy of love will forever enrich our lives. Sheri, you may have left the stage, but the encore of your memory will play on. Thank you for the giggles, the hugs, and the countless memories. Keep the cosmos chuckling, and save us a seat at the table for when we meet again.
Upon her request cremation has taken place and no services are scheduled at this time.
