Obituaries

Sherrill "Sherry" J. Padgett

June 13, 1944 - March 11, 2023

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Obituary For Sherrill "Sherry" J. Padgett

Madison – Sherrill J. “Sherry” Padgett, passed away on Saturday, March 11, 2023 at Agrace Hospice in Fitchburg. Before passing away, Sherry was able to write her own obituary. Sherry was born on June 13, 1944 in Alliance, Neb. To Winfred “Mose” and Ethel Padgett. Ethel died in a car accident when Sherry was two and she then acquired a wonderful stepmother, Francie at age nine. In the meantime, she had a brother, Ed, 7 years older who watched after her as a parent would and treated her as his best friend.

She graduated from Alliance H.S. in 1962, The University of Wyoming in Laramie in Dec., 1967, where she received her B.A. in Sociology, and the University of Wisconsin in Madison in Dec., 1984, where she received her Masters Degree in Social Work. After moving to Wisconsin, Sherry worked for the Dane County Department of Human Services as a social worker for 32 years until her retirement in April of 2000. Her life was full of her devotion to friends, love of animals and plants. She had a very special friend, Kathy Ayers, who helped her function and remain pretty independent despite her many health problems (the reason for her early retirement).

Sherry was known for her love of gardening. Even when she had to leave her home and yard, she found space in the condo yard to plant and enjoy the many birds with Kathy’s Help, which kept her spirits up.

Sherry is survived by her brother, Edward (Betty); nephews, Steve (Anne) and Michael (Laura); and niece, Cindy (Roger) Stoppel; great nieces and nephews; other relatives and friends. She is also survived by her good friend, Kathy Ayers, and Zoey, her Cat, who will dearly miss her bed partner. Sherry will be deeply missed, but we all are so happy the pain is gone.

She was preceded in death by her natural mother, stepmother, father, paternal and maternal grandparents, and aunts and uncles. Please give a memorial donation in Sherry’s name to the Dane County Humane Society or Agrace Hospice. Per Sherry’s wishes, no services will be held. To view and sign this guestbook, please visit: www.ryanfuneralservice.com.

God’s Garden God looked around His garden and He found an empty place. And then He looked down upon the Earth and saw your tired face. He put His arms around you, and lifted you to rest. God’s garden must be beautiful, He always takes the best. He knew that you were suffering, He knew you were in pain. He knew that you would never get well on Earth again He saw the road was getting rough, and the hills were hard to climb. So He closed your weary eyelids and whispered “peace be thine.” It broke our hearts to lose you, but you didn’t go alone. For part of us went with you, the day God called you home. -Author unknown-

Ryan Funeral Home & Cremation Services 2418 N Sherman Ave 608-249-8257

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Condolences

  • April 02, 2023

    I knew Sherry when she attended Alliance High School. She was always kind to us underclassmen and was always upbeat and enthusiastic in her activities. May her friends and family find comfort in good memories and the beauty she created in her gardens.

  • March 19, 2023

  • March 19, 2023

    On behalf of the UW-Madison's School of Social Work, please accept our condolences and Sherry's passing. We will share this in our alumni magazine so her former classmates can be informed. Mel Morgenbesser

  • March 19, 2023

    We lived across the street from Sherry when she was still in her house. I loved looking at her beautiful yard. Sometimes we'd share a few cocktails and tell stories. Kathy, our hearts break for you, but there is comfort knowing Sherry is no longer in pain. One of my favorite memories with you two was playing "Hi my name is Joe" Sherry,we'll turn the buttons for you this time. Love Doug and Brenda Davey

  • March 19, 2023

    I worked with Sherry for many years and never heard her say a harsh word about anyone or complain about her health challenges. My sympathy goes to family, friends, and, especially, Kathy.

  • March 18, 2023

    What a dear lady. So many smiles for so many years. Vila

  • March 15, 2023

    I had many good laughs and fun times with Sherry and Kathy. The laughter going to Arkansas made the trip worthwhile. Even though you were in pain Sherry, you had a smile. You will never be forgotten Dar

  • March 14, 2023

    Have had Sherry's friendship for 50+ years and the good times are too many to count. Always looked forward to our breakfasts. Rest in peace my friend. Nancy G

  • March 13, 2023

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