Carol J Sherry

It is with profound sadness and a deep sense of gratitude for a life well-lived that we announce the peaceful passing of Carol J. Sherry, who left us in the early hours of June 4, 2026, at her beloved home in the comforting presence of her husband, Larry, and her devoted son and daughter-in-law, Scott and Tracie. Carol was 78 years old. Born on February 13, 1948, in Omaha, Nebraska, Carol was the cherished daughter of William P. Welch and Carol Janiece Smith. She was predeceased by her father, William, and leaves behind a legacy of love through her surviving family: her loving husband of seventeen years, Larry; her son William Scott, fondly known as Scott, and his wife Tracie; her precious grandsons, Zac (Jessie) Weight, Drew and Tyler Vargas; and her great-grandsons, Lando J. and Carter J. Weight. A proud graduate of Central High School in Omaha, Carol's thirst for knowledge led her to pursue an advanced degree from UCLA, a testament to her lifelong commitment to education and personal growth. Her career was as varied as it was impressive, ranging from roles as a clerical administrator, teacher, and business owner in Las Vegas, to serving as a Project Manager dedicated to the environmentally safe destruction of World War II era chemical weapons. Carol's dedication extended beyond her professional life into her active participation in numerous organizations. She was a beloved member of POE, Chapter EE, sorority, and served with distinction as the former President of the Nevada State Mensa Society. Her leadership was further evidenced through her roles at her congregation, where she served as a council member, treasurer, and member of the Gifts & Memorials Committee, Help Ministry, and Audit Team. A woman of boundless curiosity and adventure, Carol was an avid traveler who cherished cruise ship voyages and long road trips. Her passion for geology was ignited in retirement, leading her to enroll in classes at Grossmont College and embark on a memorable tour of Utah's National Parks, declaring, "Utah Rocks!" Music was a constant companion to her journeys, with Carol holding a special place in her heart for artists like Jimmy Buffet, Toby Keith, Celtic Thunder, and, above all, Neil Diamond. Carol's love of storytelling found an outlet in her voracious reading, particularly enjoying the works of Diana Gabaldon, Stephenie Meyer, and P.D. James. She was also known for her skills at video poker, her knack for picking winning horses at the Del Mar horse track, and her mastery of crafting the perfect Manhattan cocktail. Her kindness extended to her four-legged friends, Spike, Missie, Ginger, and Muppet, whom she protected and cherished. Carol will be remembered for her pragmatic, hardworking, and straight-talking nature. She faced challenges head-on, including a serious kidney condition, with determination and resourcefulness. Her groundbreaking partnership with a doctor at UCLA Medical School led to receiving recognition from the National Kidney Foundation. Her mantra, "Do no harm to my kidney transplant," served her well, as she nurtured her kidney transplant for over 29 years without the use of immune suppressant drugs, inspiring countless medical professionals and patients alike. A celebration of Carol’s life will be held on July 25, 2026, at 11:00 AM at St. Andrews Lutheran Church ELCA, located at 8350 Lake Murray Blvd, San Diego, CA 92119. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to be made in Carol's memory to the American Kidney Fund at https://www.kidneyfund.org/. Carol's family extends heartfelt gratitude to those who supported her during her final days, including Rowda Bosley, Erica & Gloria, Maria and Jade Lee, Stephanie, Dr. Mac, her Chapter EE PEO Sorority sisters, and the Pastors and members of St. Andrew's prayer community. Your kindness and compassion made a profound difference in Carol’s journey. In honoring Carol J. Sherry, we remember a life filled with love, laughter, and unwavering strength. Her spirit will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.