Sherry Ann Gibbens

Sherry Ann Gibbens, our beloved mother, nana and wife, passed away on November 25, 2024 in Cheyenne, Wyoming, surrounded by her loving family. Sherry was born on August 12, 1941 in Anadarko, Oklahoma to Leta (Loudermilk) Moore and Elton Kime. Tragically, her father was killed during WWII when Sherry was still very young, but she cherished many fond memories of her Grandmothers Onie and Ina, who played a significant role in her upbringing. Leta remarried Robert Moore, who became her second dad.

She attended high school in both Norman, and Blackwell, Oklahoma where she ultimately graduated. She received her medical technology degree from the University of Oklahoma. One of her proudest moments was when she was able to play the clarinet during the Rose Bowl parade with the Pride of Oklahoma marching band. 

While working as a medical technologist, Sherry met the handsome young medical student, Bill, who lived across the hall from her apartment in Norman Oklahoma. It was love at first site, and they were married just 5 months later, on January 29, 1966. Their first daughter, Kathy, was born in 1968.

Later that year, they moved to Spokane, Washington, where Bill completed his internship. Their second daughter, Michelle, was born in 1969. The family was fortunate when Bill was transferred to Wethersfield, England instead of Vietnam, allowing them to embrace life overseas. They enjoyed many adventures throughout Europe, and, while in England, Sherry created many beautiful brass rubbings that adorned their home.

After returning to the United States, they settled in New Orleans, Louisiana, where Bill completed his residency. Their third daughter, Tiffany, was born in 1973. Sherry fully embraced motherhood, sewing dolls for her children, spending months constructing a doll house, and organizing neighborhood volleyball games, among many other accomplishments.

In 1976, the family embarked on their next adventure, moving to Cheyenne, Wyoming. Sherry quickly became involved in the community joining Civic League, PEO, PTA, and the CFD Western art show committee. She was actively involved with her children and their activities including Hands in Harmony, Girls Scouts, and dancing. Known for her sewing skills, she crafted prom and bridesmaid dresses, as well as a wedding dress, for her daughters. A talented gardener, Sherry continued to plant beautiful flowers even into her eighties. Sherry’s enthusiasm was evident in everything she pursued. She initiated a Spanish club in her home, learned to speak Spanish, and convinced Bill to live in Ecuador for 6 weeks for a full immersion experience.

Sherry cherished her grandchildren and great grand-daughter, making numerous birthday and graduation cakes. She learned to knit so that she could make baby blankets for her grandchildren. Just months before her passing, she insisted on making a baby blanket for her first great-granddaughter. Sherry and Bill were always present at their grandchildren’s school plays, sporting events and musical performances. Music was a significant part of Sherry’s life; she took piano lessons throughout her life and played the organ for the Methodist church and in various organ concerts. Their home was filled with pianos, organs, and musical instruments reflecting her lifelong passion.

Sherry was renowned for her holiday spirit. Each Christmas, nearly every room featured a perfectly decorated Christmas tree. She made every family member their own Christmas tree ornament every year. She even had a Halloween tree for her famous chili dinners while the grandchildren trick-or-treated.

Sherry lived a full and vibrant life, enriching the lives of those around her with her love. She is survived by her husband Bill Gibbens of Cheyenne; and her children Kathy (Bob) McCue, Michelle (Tim) Bush, and Tiffany (Nick) Healey. Her 8 grandchildren are Jackson (Caitlyn) McCue, Madison McCue (Oren Long), Hannah Thomas (Michael Boyle), Benjamin Bush, Collin Bush, Cooper Bush, Ethan Healey, Juliann Healey, great-grand-daughter Daisy McCue, and brother, Bob Moore.

A service to honor Sherry will be held on December 27, 2024 at 10 AM at the First United Methodist Church. 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Meals on Wheels, Black Dog Animal Rescue, and the Cheyenne Animal Shelter.