Sherry Laynett Long

Sherry Laynett Long, a beloved resident of Columbus, Ohio, passed away on August 24, 2023. She was born on August 16, 1946, in Columbus, Ohio to Frederick Dockett Brown and Dola Nadine Mathis Brown. She was the only daughter of five children and was definitely a “Daddy’s Girl”. Sherry was a vibrant and dignified African American woman who touched the lives of those around her with her genuine warmth and kindness.

Sherry was a 1965 graduate of South High School and attended Devry Technical Institute. She was a Data Entry Operator for 35 years and retired from Columbia Gas in 1991. She maintained entrepreneurial endeavors as a Child Care Provider and Seamstress.

Sherry was known for her welcoming nature and her ability to connect with people effortlessly. She never met a stranger and was always ready to lend a helping hand or share a kind word. Sherry’s passion for sewing was evident in the beautiful prom and wedding dresses she crafted, as well as the creative Halloween costumes she lovingly made for her grandchildren. She passed the love of this craft to all of her granddaughters.

Sherry happily remarried Sterling Harvey Long in 1990. They spent 13 years loving each other and raising their children. A devout member of Seventh Avenue Community Baptist Church, Sherry found great solace and strength in her faith. She actively participated in church activities and embraced the sense of community it provided her.

Beyond her passion for sewing and her devotion to her church, Sherry loved the thrill of visiting casinos with her family and friends. She relished in organizing exciting out-of-town bus trips, ensuring that everyone had a memorable time. Sherry’s meticulous nature was apparent throughout her life, from her impeccable style to her carefully chosen jewelry and watches.

Sherry had a sweet tooth and indulged in her favorite treats, including German Chocolate Cake, Banana Pudding, and an assortment of berry pies. Butter Pecan Ice Cream was her ultimate weakness, a delight she savored with great enthusiasm.

Aside from her charming personality, Sherry possessed a quick wit and a great sense of humor. Her sharp comebacks and laughter brought joy to those around her and left lasting memories.

Sherry was preceded in death by her parents and brothers Vaughn Brown and Geno Brown, and proceeded in death by her husband, Sterling Harvey Long.

Sherry will be lovingly remembered by her daughter, Angela (William Bryson) Wicker, her granddaughters Aricka Turner, Astarra Turner, and Alexa Wicker, and her great-grandchildren Noah Peters and Dola Turner. She is also survived by her brothers, Frederick Brown and Prescotte Brown. She is also survived by a special nephew that was more like a son; she called him her “Sonephew”, Geno White as well as a host of other nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Although Sherry’s presence will be deeply missed, her memory will forever inspire and uplift those who were fortunate enough to have known her. May her elegance, kindness, and zest for life continue to bring comfort to all who loved and cherished her.

Sherry Long’s visitation and service will be held at 9:00am & 10:00am, at the Chapel of Peace-East, 5456 East Livingston Avenue, Columbus, OH 43232, on Saturday, September 16, 2023.