WILMINGTON — Sherry Ann Kahney, born June 15, 1950, in Chattanooga, TN, passed away on June 23, 2024, in Wilmington, NC, at Lower Cape Fear LifeCare.
She spent most of her younger years enjoying the mountains of Eastern TN with the enthusiasm of a child watching all the wonders around her. She loved children and shared her kindness by working in the early childhood education system. Sherry grew up with many ambitions. In all of her journeys throughout life, her one true North was the idea of enrichment of others through her outpouring of love. It wasn’t always easy and there were many learning curves along the way. But she found her true calling as a behavioral health specialist with Learning Perspectives Inc., where she was overall and particularly helpful in the growth of the school behavioral support program in the school system where she belonged. Her patience and kindness were witnessed by all and above all else her children.
Sherry shared her joy and kindness with her children and grandchildren. She had an amazing sense of humor and would laugh hysterically as she pulled pranks that may have included convincing her children that the dog treats were Christmas cookies! She always made every moment count and always somehow made time with her three rambunctious children despite working multiple jobs. She enjoyed the small stepping stones of their lives and cherished those memories.
Sherry laughed and loved like no other. Her compassion to help others and giant heart was felt by anyone lucky enough to have spent time with her. She enjoyed her many adventures in the mountains and at the beach watching nature with all the wonders it had to offer. She found peace watching all the magical birds that would visit her plants and garden. Finding random pet friends while watching her partner, Bobby, walk their beloved dog, Maggie.
She is preceded in death by her mother Frances J. Cloninger. Sherry is survived by her sons Justin Kahney (Wendy) and Neal Larson, her daughter Brenda Larson, her partner of 16 years Robert C. Solomon, grandchildren Lucas, Colton, Benjahmon, Michael, Katelyn, Catie, and Isa, brother Greg Cloninger (Michelle), sister Gayle Cloninger Fellers (Henry), and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends who loved and will miss her dearly.
Despite the absolute hole that was left in all of our hearts, what was left behind was far greater. The memories and the joy that you shared taught us all how life was meant to be. Full of laughter, love, and kindness. You are an amazing woman and your strength to endure everything in life gives us all encouragement to leap without looking, love like no other, and cherish every moment as if we were still young. We will miss you to no end, but I know you’re still going to watch us from heaven and guide us through the storms.
Please leave memories and condolences for Sherry’s family here.
