Sharilyn Long

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Sharilyn Long, age 73, on December 22, 2020 at Akron General Medical Center from complications of COVID.

Sherry was preceded in death by her beloved daughter, Jody; mother, Marion; father, Lorenzo; brothers, Timothy Jones and Willie Jones; and sister, Becky Simon, who passed only 10 days prior to Sherry, also from COVID. She leaves behind her son, Jason; and siblings, Mary (Karl) Boss, Deborah Stringfield, Jesse (Maru) Jones, Candy Teets and Tammy Jones. She also leaves many nephews and nieces that adore her.

Sherry had a strong work ethic and did whatever it took to complete each task set before her. A true example of Colossians 3:23. Work willingly at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people. This obedient love carried over in the daily care of her treasured son, Jason. Many marveled at the example of sacrificial, persevering love she exhibited in her devotion to him.

Sherry enjoyed the beauty of flowers and the outdoors, which she shared with Jason. Sherry not only made sure all of Jason's needs were met, but they enjoyed time spent with each other at their special retreat at Springwood Lake Camp Club or cultivating flowers are home. The sweet fragrance of the roses that she loved, planted at her doorstep, seemed to shout "Remember me in this way - spread sweetness, wherever you go."

Sherry's son, Jason, was brain injured at ten months old. She was devoted to Jason's care and therapies, and spent every day and night, for more than forty years, making sure that Jason had what he needed or desired to be happy.

A very big part of their lives together was Jason's brain injury group, Heads Up No Boundaries, a support group for those with brain injury and their families. They provide a place to meet and share experiences, and support one another along the difficult path. They go on outings, have speakers, holiday parties, attend ball games at Canal Park, etc. They provide a way to bring friendship and support to one another. Sherry would prepare special treats and candies for the meetings. She was famous for her freshly popped popcorn with chocolate drizzle, and Valentine candies in the shape of hearts. She always had the special touch, giving of herself in this way.

Sherry and Jason would always try to attend a big seminar in Columbus, for the brain injured, when she could afford to get there. Some years she could not swing it. In lieu of flowers, we suggest a donation to help defray the costs for another family to get to a Columbus seminar, in Sharilyn's name, to BIAOH.org which stands for Brain Injury Association of Ohio.