Dorothy Sherman

There are some who live their lives doing their own thing and keeping to themselves in such a way that their hearts never deeply connect with the hearts and lives of others. This is not who Dorothy Sherman was at all since her tender and generous heart made her so easy to love. Like a magnificent sunrise splashed across the sky, Dorothy’s warm smile and inner beauty just naturally drew others to her. She was a woman of many interests and talents throughout her life and even as the storms of life loomed overhead at times, Dorothy’s faith remained strong.

During a year in which the motion picture industry was revolutionized by the production of the first important all-talking motion picture and the first transatlantic telephone call was made from New York City to London, America was reaching new heights like never before. These were prosperous times as well with a booming economy which boasted of an unemployment rate just over three percent. The year was 1927 and this was also a monumental year in Gun Plain Township, Michigan as John and Bessie Munroe were pleased to announce the birth of their daughter, Dorothy Irene, on February 19th. Dorothy was raised on a farm in Plainwell located within Gun Plain Township. She was joined in her family by her sister Phyllis, and the Munroe family weathered the storms of the Great Depression which gripped our nation throughout the thirties and even beyond for many families who were struggling to make ends meet.

The public school system within the United States underwent profound changes during the thirties and forties at all levels of education. Primary and secondary education which had been for the most part underfunded, poorly organized, and inefficient, became more standardized, better organized, and properly funded by the end of the forties. During this transitional time, Dorothy attended local schools including Plainwell High School where she played the clarinet. She became a graduate of the class of 1946 and was ready to embark on the next phase in her life.

Big changes were in store for Dorothy when she met and married Ronald D. Sherman in 1952. Nothing could have pleased Dorothy more than when she became a mother a bit later. She and Ronald were blessed with the births of two children, Sandra and Vic. Dorothy was a wonderful mother who loved her children deeply. Although her marriage to Ronald ended in divorce in 1978, she would forever treasure the children who had sprung forth from their union. When her family grew to include grandchildren, Dorothy delighted in them just as she had her own children and the time she spent gathered with her family was always some of the moments that Dorothy treasured most.

In addition to being with her family, there were several other interests that Dorothy pursued as often as she could. She was a bit of a nature lover who enjoyed flower gardening and watching hummingbirds. Dorothy also combined her more creative side with her baking skills as she often made specialty cakes. Additionally, Dorothy was an excellent seamstress and enjoyed passing the time putting these skills to good use. She was also a woman of faith and was a lifelong member of the Vicksburg United Methodist Church.

Life became more difficult for Dorothy and her family during her later years. She began to suffer from Alzheimer’s disease and as the unwelcome guest blanketed her more and more, the last several years of her life were spent fighting this difficult battle. Dorothy moved to assisted living about six years ago and then to Riverview Manor in Three Rivers last November. Eventually, her fight became too much and Dorothy was finally able to enjoy her eternal rest.

Two of the many things that set Dorothy Sherman apart from the rest were her heartfelt smile and her strong hugs. Dorothy was kind and giving, always looking for ways in which she could help others. She was gifted in many ways and was happiest when she was surrounded by her loving family. In so many ways, Dorothy impacted the hearts and lives of those around her just by being who she was each and every day. Although her family now lets her go, they hold fast to the many precious memories they have of their beloved sister, mother, and grandmother that will live on in their hearts forever.

Dorothy Irene Sherman died on October 24, 2009 at Riverview Manor Nursing Home. Dorothy’s family includes her children, Sandra (Scott) Wheeler and Vic (Sheri) Sherman; her grandchildren, SSgt. Seth Gregory, Kelsey Gregory, Lee Sherman, Amber Sherman, Dan Wheeler, Marc (Stephanie) Wheeler, Bryan (Andra) Wheeler; sister, Phyllis (Robert) Munroe Penick; and one great granddaughter (Emma); as well as several nieces and nephews. Dorothy was preceded in death by her parents. Visit with her family and friends, view her life story film, and share light refreshments on Wednesday from 5:00-8:00 at Life Story Funeral Home, Vicksburg; 409 S. Main St. (649-1697). Please visit www.lifestorynet.com where you can archive a memory or photo, sign her memory book online before coming to the funeral home, or make a memorial donation the Alzheimer’s Association.