Obituary: Sherry Raye Jones

Obituary was published and funeral arrangements were entrusted to the care and direction of the Fred C. Dames Funeral Home and Crematory​.

Sherry Raye Jones

Sherry Raye (Trudgian) Jones, born Sheryl Raye Trudgian, 81, of Joliet, Illinois, passed away peacefully on Saturday, October 24, 2026.

To know Sherry was to know unconditional love. She was a woman of extraordinary kindness, compassion, and generosity, whose beautiful spirit radiated joy wherever she went. With a smile that could brighten any room and a heart that always had room for one more, Sherry had a remarkable gift for making everyone around her feel special, valued, and deeply loved.

Sherry was a natural caregiver in every sense of the word. A social worker by profession and a servant at heart, she devoted her life to helping others. Her passion for serving her church and community was a reflection of the faith and compassion that guided her life. She was an exceptional listener, a trusted confidante, and a steady source of wisdom and encouragement. Whether someone was navigating life's most difficult challenges or celebrating its greatest joys, Sherry was always there—offering a listening ear, thoughtful advice, a comforting embrace, or simply the reassurance that they were not alone. She had an extraordinary ability to make people feel heard, understood, and supported.

Her thoughtfulness knew no bounds. Sherry delighted in finding little ways to make others happy, often working tirelessly behind the scenes to create meaningful surprises and special moments for those she loved. She had a wonderful gift for expressing herself through words, and her heartfelt letters and cards marked birthdays, holidays, milestones, and countless occasions in between. Each was a personal reminder of how much someone meant to her. Those treasured words, so lovingly written, will remain lasting reminders of the love she shared so freely.

An avid reader, Sherry was rarely without a book nearby. She had an endless curiosity and a love of learning, but perhaps her greatest gift was her ability to understand people. Her empathy, wisdom, and genuine interest in the lives of others made her an extraordinary friend and confidante. She was someone people naturally turned to for guidance, knowing they would always be met with kindness, honesty, and unconditional support.

Above all else, Sherry's greatest joy was her family. She was not only a devoted mother but also a best friend, a trusted sounding board, and an unwavering source of love and encouragement. Through life's most difficult moments, she was a constant presence, offering strength, understanding, and reassurance. And when there was something to celebrate, no one shared in that happiness more wholeheartedly than Sherry. She was her family's greatest cheerleader, always finding ways, both big and small, to remind them just how deeply they were loved. Her love was never in question because she expressed it so beautifully, in both words and actions, every single day.

Sherry shared 60 beautiful years of marriage with her beloved husband, Dennis Paul Jones, who preceded her in death just a few short months ago. Their marriage was a remarkable testament to enduring love and devotion. They were truly soulmates, and their affection for one another was evident in the simplest of moments—a loving glance, a warm smile, a good morning kiss, or the familiar comfort of holding hands. Sherry cared for Dennis with extraordinary tenderness, devotion, and selflessness, always placing his comfort and happiness at the center of her heart. The love and care she gave him were nothing short of remarkable, reflecting the same boundless generosity of spirit she extended to her entire family. Together, they built a beautiful life rooted in love, laughter, faith, and family. While their passing leaves an immeasurable void, there is comfort in knowing they are together once again.

Sherry was the daughter of the late Dorothy (Port) and Lowell Trudgian.

She is the loving mother of Heather Anusbigian, Tambi (Todd) Nettelhorst, and Melissa (Chad) Kramer; proud grandmother of William, James, and Isabella Anusbigian, and Megan, Ashley, and Mackenzie Nettelhorst; and loving grandmother to her beloved grand dogs, Kimo and Bo.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Dennis Paul Jones; her parents, Dorothy (Port) and Lowell Trudgian; and her sister, Carol Smith.

Family and friends are invited to gather on Saturday, November 14, 2026, for visitation from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m., followed by a memorial service from 4:00 to 5:00 p.m. at the Fred C. Dames Funeral Home, 3200 Black Road (at Essington Road), Joliet, Illinois.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Sherry's name may be made to St. John's Food Pantry.

Though our hearts are broken, we find comfort in the extraordinary legacy of love Sherry leaves behind. She taught us that love is not simply something we feel, but something we do—in the time we give, the kindness we show, the words we share, and the way we care for one another. Her beautiful smile, gentle spirit, and boundless compassion will live on in the countless lives she touched. She leaves behind a family who never had to wonder how much they were loved, and a world made infinitely better because she was in it.

She will be deeply missed, forever cherished, and always remembered.

For more information, please call (815) 741-5500 or visit her Memorial Tribute at www.fredcdames.com, where you can view a complete obituary and share a favorite memory.

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