Sherri Jane Lackey

On June 4, 2026, Sherri Jane Lackey, a beloved mother, sister, grandmother, and friend, peacefully departed from this world, leaving behind a legacy of love, dedication, and warmth that will be cherished by all who knew her. Born on September 6, 1949, in El Dorado, Kansas, Sherri was the treasured daughter of Patricia “Irene” and Melvin Edwin “Bill” Mills. She spent her formative years in the close-knit community of Towanda, Kansas, where she cultivated lifelong friendships and values that would guide her throughout her life. Sherri’s journey of education commenced at Circle High School, followed by Butler County Community College. She then furthered her academic pursuit at Kansas State University, graduating in 1972 with a bachelor's degree in business administration. Her time at Kansas State nurtured a deep connection to the university, particularly its athletic programs, a passion she carried throughout her life. In 1977, Sherri’s heart found its home with Willis “John” Lackey, with whom she shared a beautiful marriage filled with love and mutual respect. They wed on April 23 in Prairie Village and together, they built a life in Overland Park, Kansas, raising their beloved son, Ryan. Sherri and John’s enduring partnership spanned over 36 blissful years, rooted in love, support, and shared adventures. Sherri was a woman of many talents and passions. Her professional life was marked by her dedication to sports and education. She was proud to work for the NCAA during its tenure in Kansas City, a role that perfectly aligned with her love for athletics. Her commitment to education was evident in her volunteer work and service as a paraprofessional within the Blue Valley School District, where she touched the lives of countless children with her kindness and encouragement. Her love for sports was not just a professional interest but a lifelong passion. For over three decades, Sherri was a devoted Kansas City Chiefs season-ticket holder, and her enthusiasm for Kansas State sporting events, especially football, was infectious. In her later years, her greatest joy was watching her granddaughters, Caroline and Brooke, shine in their dance competitions and recitals, where her pride and love knew no bounds. Sherri’s family was the heart of her world. She is survived by her cherished son, Ryan Lackey, and his wife, Natalie, of Manhattan, Kansas, and her adored grandchildren, Caroline and Brooke. She also leaves behind her dear sisters, Judy Hill of El Dorado and Melanie (Jack) Goss of Wichita, who were not only her siblings but her lifelong confidantes and friends. Sherri was preceded in death by her loving parents, Bill and Irene, who undoubtedly welcomed her with open arms into the next life. Her spirit of generosity, warmth, and unyielding positivity will be celebrated and remembered by all who were fortunate to know her. A celebration of Sherri’s life will be held on Tuesday, June 9, at 12:30 p.m. at the Johnson County Funeral Chapel, located at 11200 Metcalf Ave., Overland Park, Kansas 66210. Following the service, Sherri will be laid to rest at Johnson County Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the K-State Athletics Ahearn Fund and the American Cancer Society, organizations close to Sherri’s heart. As we say goodbye to Sherri Jane Lackey, we remember her not only for the life she led but for the love she shared and the legacy she leaves behind. She will be deeply missed, but her spirit will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.