Sherry L. Smithson

Tribute

          Sherry Smithson passed away on Wednesday, June 15, 2022. She was born in Amory, Mississippi on April 4, 1945. Her family moved to Sulligent, Alabama where she spent most of her early years. Sherry was preceded in death by her mother, Millie Gray Smithson, her father Granville Smithson, and her stepfather John R. Christian.

          Sherry received her Bachelor of Science Degree from Livingston University and Master’s Degree from South Alabama.

          Sherry moved to Panama City and taught at Everitt Middle School for 30 years as head of the Physical Education Department. During this time, she received many accolades for her service as an educator. She was teacher of the year two times while working at Everitt. She also was a Golden Apple Award recipient and received a state award for Special Innovation programs. Although she had many awards, her largest award was having the Everitt Middle School Gymnasium named after her and the legacy she left behind.

          Sherry was a speaker at many Local Civic Clubs in support of Everitt Middle School. She also served on the Physical Education Advisory Council and textbook evaluation committees. She spent numerous summers working at Louisiana State University helping coordinate a high school leadership committee for outstanding high school seniors.

          Sherry loved teaching at Everitt and all the students and faculty there. Sherry’s outgoing and fun-loving personality brought her many friends and she will be greatly missed by all. When Sherry retired, she started a monthly Breakfast Club to stay in contact with all of her Everitt retirees. During her summer vacations and retirement, she traveled to every state in the United States in her beloved RV. She was also privileged enough to go to Hawaii with the Floyd family. Sherry loved traveling and also traveled throughout Europe.

          Sherry also loved collecting antiques including an extensive collection of advertising memorabilia. She was also an avid dog lover and rescued many dogs throughout the years. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to your favorite charity or animal rescue. Having written this obituary, I only wish that everyone would be fortunate enough to have a Sherry Smithson pass through their lives.

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