Sherry Gaye (Haynes) Standridge

It is with profound sorrow and a deep sense of loss that we announce the passing of Sherry Gaye Standridge, who left this world unexpectedly on November 15, 2024, in Kernersville, North Carolina. Born in the heart of Mercer County, West Virginia, on December 16, 1962, Sherry's life was marked by her undaunted courage, infectious spirit, and passionate love for those around her.

Sherry, a woman of great fortitude and joy, spent her days nurturing the lives of those she held dear. As a loving mother to Tony Ray Newcomb, Melissa Standridge (Jeremy), and Danielle Standridge, she imparted values of kindness and resilience that will continue to resonate through generations. Sherry's siblings, brother Kevin McKnight, and nieces, Shenna Ortiz (Billy), Sheri Nobles (Chad), and Shawna Ortiz (fiancé Jared), knew her as a steadfast presence in their lives. She was also a cherished aunt to four great-nieces and a great-nephew, all of whom will hold her memory in a special place.

Though preceded in death by her husband, Gary Standridge, her father, Gaythel Haynes, her mother, Clara Basham Haynes, and her sister Sheila Ortiz, along with brother-in-law Robert Ortiz, Sherry’s spirit remains alive in those she loved. Her grandchildren—Xavier Armstrong, Elijah Armstrong, Ayden Armstrong, Harper Stanley, Ryder Stanley, Vivianna Contreras, Elaina Contreras, Elias Contreras, Nicholas Contreras, Layla Contreras, Emelio Contreras, and Emma Contreras—were the apples of her eye, and her treasured fur babies, Sparky and Angel, brought her endless joy and companionship.

Sherry’s professional life was as full as her personal one, marked by an unwavering commitment to those in her care. Known for her exquisite culinary skills and love for cooking, she brought warmth and love to every meal she prepared. Her free spirit ensured a life lived on her own terms, embracing each experience with openness and a desire to learn.

Avid animal lover Sherry nurtured a special affection for chihuahuas, expressing her compassionate nature through the support of the ASPCA. Her faith was a cornerstone of her life, with Christian values guiding her generous and kind-hearted actions in service to others.

In every role she took on, Sherry’s courage shone through. She faced life’s challenges without fear, standing as a beacon of strength to her family and all who had the privilege of knowing her. Sherry's spirited laughter and unwavering tenacity will be missed by many, leaving a legacy of love that will forever permeate the lives of her family and friends.

To her loved ones, Sherry's life is a testament to the power of living authentically and passionately. She will be remembered as a woman who embodied the fullness of life, who loved fiercely, and whose memory will continue to inspire bravery and love in all who knew her.

We bid farewell to Sherry Standridge, a remarkable woman whose influence will endure in the hearts of her family and the many lives she touched. Though her physical presence is no longer with us, her spirit remains a guiding light that will never diminish.

A celebration of life will be held at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, December 7, 2024, at Slate Funeral Home. 

Slate Funeral Home is Honored to serve the family of Sherry Gaye Standridge. Online condolences may be offered at www.slatefh.com.

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