Donald R. Sherry

Donald R. Sherry, 91, of Juneau, died peacefully surrounded by his loving family Monday, November 10, 2025, at the Punxsutawney Area Hospital.

He was born July 10, 1934, in Juneau, PA, the son of Harry Edward “Ed” and Hazel Elizabeth (McDowell) Sherry.

Don graduated from Punxsutawney High School in 1952, where he played football and played the trombone in the marching band. He was a U.S. Army Veteran and served in Fort Bragg, NC. On April 2, 1966, he married the love of his life, Kay Johnson. Together, they built a life of love and dedication that endured throughout and was evident to all through her gentle care and devotion until he went home to his Lord. He worked in the coal and steel industries before landing on the railroad as a fireman oiler. For over 40 years, he made an array of friends, fully embraced his role, and became a proud railroad enthusiast. He retired in 1994 to settle into his last venture as a full-time husband, father, and, his most cherished role, as “Gran Paw”.

Don is survived by his treasured wife, Kay; his children: Darren (Susan) Sherry, Aurora, OH; Ken (Karin) Sherry, Cicero, NY; and Mary Kay Sherry, Punxsutawney. He is also survived by his pride and joy, and the lights of his life, his granddaughters, Alyssa and Jenna Sherry, both of Cicero, NY. He is also survived by his brother Tom Sherry of Pittsburgh, and his brother-in-law Robert Johnson of Punxsutawney. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brothers Harry and Jim Sherry, and his sister, Patricia Rowland.

As a member of Valley Chapel United Methodist Church, Don served his Lord and community with the utmost care, kindness, and sincerity. Some of his happiest moments were spent singing in the Valley Chapel Choir. He was a dedicated fan of the Punxsy Chucks, attending football and basketball games, long after his children graduated because he believed in supporting his community. In addition, he was an avid fan of the Steelers and, especially, his Pitt Panthers. Some of his favorite memories were taking his sons to Pitt Stadium, meeting up with his brother and nephews, and watching his Panthers win. He enjoyed gardening, tending to his yard and flowers, and his occasional golf outings with his sons. Most of all, he loved his family and telling anyone in earshot about his granddaughters. Don will always be remembered for his genuine smile, unwavering kindness to all, and tremendous ability to make all feel noticed and important to him. His family would like to thank his doctors, nurses, and caregivers for their wonderful support over the years.

Friends will be received from 1-3 pm and from 5-7 pm on Friday at McCabe Funeral Home, Inc., 114 Maple Avenue, Punxsutawney, PA. Friends will also be received beginning at 10 am Saturday until the time of service at 11 am at Valley Chapel United Methodist Church, Juneau, PA with Pastor Janet Chiplis and Carl White officiating.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to local food pantry or a charity of your choice.

To offer condolences, or to share a memory, please visit www.mccabewaldronfh.com .