Sherri Lynn Smith

It is with deep sadness that we announce the unexpected passing of our Beautiful Friend, Sherri Smith, on Friday August 28, 2026 at the age of 61.
Born November 4, 1963, to Don and Marilyn Smith in Bellevue, Washington, Sherri spent her childhood and teen years in Bellevue. Sherri was one for adventures, new challenges and anything that someone said she could not do. She graduated from Bellevue High School in 1981 and following in her Dad's footsteps, later graduated from Central Washington University with a degree in Finance. She then stepped into the world of Commercial Banking which would take her to Seattle, Ballard and finally Wenatchee where she would realize that the big city nights had gotten just TOO BIG for her.
Sherri loved the slower pace and peacefulness of Eastern Washington, as well as the community she found there. Sherri could be found either at the top of the mountains skiing down through the moguls. In the Gorge, catching the wind while kite surfing, or trying to match her Mom's skills in the garden whether it be flowers or vegetables. She loved the outdoors and her love for the outdoors was only rivaled by her love for all animals. To know Sherri was to know a lint roller as a daily companion. She would leave bowls of food out for any animal that might need a little pick up or a soft blanket for a chilly night. Sherri touched the lives of so many. Her compassion extended just as naturally to people and was especially known for her kindness and generosity toward strangers and anyone who needed someone in their corner.
After years away, Sherri's heart strings would eventually pull her back to Ellensburg. It was here she would strengthen existing friendships and form new ones that she treasured. She truly loved Ellensburg and the little home she was making her own. Walking and taking care of Clipper or tending to "Marilyn's Garden" were some of her most favorite chores. Sitting on her back porch, listening to her quite soulful, jazzy, contemporary music selection for that night while solving ALL the problems of the world, is a memory many of us will replay in our minds for the years to come - and smile with her while doing so.
Sherri leaves behind many cherished memories and a legacy of love, laughter, kindness, generosity, adventure and unbreakable bonds of friendship that live forever in the hearts of those that continue to love her.
Aloha, a hui hou my friend.
"To live in hearts we leave behind is not to die." — Thomas Campbell
A graveside service for Sherri will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, September 25, 2026 at Calvary Cemetery in Yakima.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Johnston and Williams of Ellensburg. Online condolences can be left at www.johnston-williams.com.