In Loving Memory
Sherry Dickens Smith
May 24, 1961 — May 30, 2026
It is with heavy hearts and profound sadness that we announce the passing of Sherry Dickens Smith, who departed this world peacefully at home on May 30, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. Born on May 24, 1961, in Hampton, Virginia, Sherry was a beacon of warmth, love, and strength throughout her 65 years of life.
Sherry was the beloved daughter of Van Grayson Dickens and Shirley Johnson Dickens. She was preceded in death by her cherished daughter, Ashley Smith Rees, whose memory she carried tenderly in her heart and her father Van Grayson Dickens. Sherry is survived by her devoted husband of 38 years, Ronald Jeffrey Smith, whose steadfast love and partnership were the foundation of their beautifully blended family.
Together, Sherry and Ronald raised four biological children: Grayson Jeffrey Smith, Warren Ronald Smith and his wife April, Leonidas Dickens Smith and his wife Charity, and Ashley Elizabeth Smith Rees. Demonstrating her boundless compassion and commitment to nurturing young lives, Sherry and Ronald also lovingly adopted three more children: Marshall Connor Smith, Anna Marie Smith and their granddaughter Matalyn Shirley Rees Smith.
Sherry's family ties extended to her dear siblings, who shared in her laughter and adventures: Matalyn Dickens Smith and her husband Alan, Yvonne Carol Dickens and her husband Chris, Van Leonidas Dickens and his wife Teri and Warren Charles Dickens.
Sherry had 8 nieces and nephews that she loved. Her closest friend, Jean Murray, was a constant source of joy and support throughout Sherry's life.
A graduate of E.E. Smith High School, Sherry continued her education at Pembroke University. She had sharp technological and computer skills that would define her professional pursuits. Her quick wit and keen intellect were matched only by her deep faith and devotion as a committed Christian, which guided her actions and interactions with kindness and grace.
Sherry's love for the outdoors was evident in her youthful pursuits of outdoor activities including motorcycling, driving her beloved Jeep, camping, boating, and rescuing small animals in need. Her nurturing spirit and infectious enthusiasm for life were evident in everything she did.
A service to honor Sherry's remarkable life will be held on June 6, 2026. A viewing will be at 12;00 and service begin at 1:00 PM at Pages Chapel Church, located at 1227 West White Pond Road, Fairmont, NC. In lieu of flowers, the family graciously requests donations to the unexpected Child Care for the Three Little Ones which will assist with the travel and babysitting expenses incurred during recent months. Please give donations to Yvonne Bledsoe or Matalyn Millen. You can send your donation to:
Matalyn Millen
6718 Rockfish Road
Fayetteville, NC 38406
The Smith family extends their heartfelt gratitude to all who have supported them with food, texts, and prayers during this difficult time. A special thank you is extended to Yvonne Dickens Bledsoe for her unwavering support of Sherry throughout her courageous eight-month battle with cancer.
Sherry Dickens Smith's legacy is one of love, laughter, and an unwavering commitment to those she cherished. Her spirit will live on in the hearts of her family and friends, and her memory will be a guiding light for all who knew her.