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, VA, 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 daughter, Ashley Smith Rees, whose memory she carried tenderly in her heart, and her father, Van Grayson Dickens.

Sherry is survived by her 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 adopted three more children: Marshall Connor Smith, Anna Marie Smith, and their granddaughter, Matalyn Shirley Rees Smith.

Sherry's family ties extended to her siblings, who shared in her laughter and adventures: Matalyn Dickens Millen 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, whom 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 Jeep, camping, boating, and rescuing small animals in need. Her nurturing spirit and infectious enthusiasm for life were evident in everything she did. One of her favorite pastimes was visiting Disney World. She and Ronald took numerous memorable trips to Disney throughout the years.

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.

A service to honor Sherry's remarkable life will be held on Saturday, June 6, 2026, at 1:00 PM at Page's Chapel Church, located at 1227 W. White Pond Road, in Fairmont, NC. Prior to the service, a time of visitation will be held at 12:00 PM. Burial will follow in the church's cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family graciously requests donations toward the unexpected child care for the three little ones, which will assist with travel and babysitting expenses incurred during recent months. Please give donations to Yvonne Bledsoe or Matalyn Millen (6718 Rockfish Road, Fayetteville, NC 28306).