Sherry L. Gallagher, 52, of Eureka, California, passed away suddenly on October 10th, 2016.  Sherry is preceded in death by her husband Shawn Gallagher. Life has its challenges; Sherry always faced each one with grace and grit.

On March 25th, 1964, Sherry was born in Willow Creek, at home in an 8x35 trailer to Ron and Sue Bolling. She was welcomed by big sister Debbie, and her other big sister Kim Deur.  As a teenager, Sherry attended high school in Eureka. She went on to nursing school at College of the Redwoods and graduated as a Registered Nurse. She was one of the first ANCC nurses to be certified in the field of Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing.

Sherry’s 30+ year career was devoted to serving the mentally ill and aged in Humboldt County. Her gifts were so recognized that she was invited to teach psychiatric nursing at the same school from which she graduated. She was a mentor to many of Humboldt’s finest nurses, who credit their careers to Sherry. She successfully built bridges with community stakeholders that paved the way for better care for the mentally ill. But more importantly, she built a beautiful family. She deeply loved her life and children, aka, ‘The Gallagher Girls’ — Mayghann, Katelyn, and Austynn, as well as, her adopted daughter Tina and grandson Koltonn.

Sherry was cherished by all. She was truly one-of-a-kind — adventurous, funny, a tried and true Harley lover, creative, positive, a treasure hunter with an unyielding strength in the face of obstacles, loyal, compassionate, professional and inspiring. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, her community and all who were fortunate enough to know her.

A Celebration of Life in honor of Sherry will be held Oct 29th, 2016 from 11:00 to 12:00 at the Church of the Nazarene on ‘E’ Street in Eureka. Please wear colorful clothing.

In lieu of flowers we ask that you put those contributions toward help for her girls. Donations can be made to:  Coast Central Credit Union account# 194659 S7.1 

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The obituary above was submitted by Sherry Gallagher’s family. The Lost Coast Outpost runs obituaries of Humboldt County residents at no charge. See guidelines here. Email news@lostcoastoutpost.com.