Obituaries

Judith Anne Sherry

07/28/1943 - 11/05/2023

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Obituary For Judith Anne Sherry

Judith Anne Sherry passed away peacefully in her hometown of Maspeth, New York with her loving daughter, Robyn, on Nov. 5, 2023. She was 80 years old and was happily married for 57 years to Robert J. Sherry of Sherry Brothers Construction Company of Patton, PA. Judith met Robert while he was working with his father and putting up white wooden siding on her aunt and uncle's house on Linwood Ave. in Patton during a family vacation. Robert passed away in 2001. Judith graduated from St. Joseph's College for Women in Brooklyn, N.Y. and received a B.A. degree in History and Teacher Education. She then went on to study at Hunter College of the City University of N.Y. for a master’s degree in Teacher Education. She was a dedicated teacher of Social Studies at Flushing High School in N.Y. for 37 years. During her tenure, she also taught in the COOP project which prepared poor and disadvantaged youth to get jobs. She frequently was awarded with honorary plaques citing her excellent work, dedication, patience and love for students. Often she could be heard telling her students, "if you have problems outside of school, check them at the classroom door and come in ready to learn". She would follow-up by telling her students that she knew about problems at home and that she herself had to put them aside in favor of learning and succeeding. Years following her career as a teacher, she would often be recognized by former students who would cry out, is that you, Mrs. Sherry. Do you remember me?" The students would then say that they would never forget her and that they loved her. Judith was also a champion of liberal and just causes. She was an active member of the teachers' union, UFT-CIO and was a leader in the teachers' union movement. She served as Chapter Leader for her school and worked tirelessly to improve the conditions of student learning as well as the working environment of teachers. She was cited for her excellence as a UFT-CIO leader in years, 1992 and 2000, and was given the Ely Trachtenberg Award for her diligent, untiring, and outstanding service on behalf of the teaching profession. A devout Catholic she was a member of St. Adelbert's Church in Elmhurst, N.Y. and actively supported the school program. She also taught religious classes at St. Mary's Church in Woodside, N.Y. for many years. Judith was a loving and dedicated parent, as was Robert, to their Daughter, Robyn, 49 years old who is a graduate of La Guardia Community College in N.Y. Robyn provided home care to her mother during Judith's final years. Judith lived everyday of her life with dignity, grace and character. She was a role model to her daughter, younger sister, Frances and to her students. She was loved and respected by all. She is survived by daughter Robyn and her sister, Dr. Frances Frey who followed in her footsteps by becoming an Educational Psychologist and University Professor. Judith's Patton roots are deep. Her mother was Patton resident, Mary Senko and she is also survived by numerous cousins, nieces and nephews living in the Patton area. Family and friends will be received from 2-4 & 6-8 pm Monday, November 20, 2023 at Stevens Funeral Home, Inc., 1004 North Fifth Avenue, Patton. Funeral Mass Tuesday, November 21, 2023 at Queen of Peace Catholic Church, Patton, by Benedictine Fathers. Interment St. Mary’s Cemetery, Patton. You may leave online condolences at www.stevensfamilyfuneralhomes.com or on the Stevens Family Funeral Homes Facebook page.

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  • 04/22/2024

    I'm sorry to find out about the loss of Mrs. Sherry. She was my history and coop teacher at Flushing HS, class 1986. If it wasn't for her and her patience, I have her to thank for building up my confidence, to getting a job. After I graduated high school, we kept in touch. I would send her a Christmas card and wondered what happened and eventually found out on the FB site. I'm sorry to the family for their loss. She had a heart of gold.

  • 11/15/2023

    My heartfelt condolences!

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