Sherry Manning Clark, 70, passed away Wednesday, Dec. 6, 2017, surrounded by her family after a courageous battle with cancer.  Born in Bassett, March 3, 1947, Sherry was the daughter of the late Lois Bishop and Andrew Manning Jr. She was a 1965 graduate of Hampton High School. 

In addition to her parents, Sherry was preceded in death by her brother, Barry L. Manning; and granddaughter, Sammie Bachand.  She leaves to cherish her memory, her beloved husband of 29 years, Raleigh Clark; five children, Kelly Williamson (James Jr.), Danette Bachand (Duane) of Hampton, Ernest S. Montgomery of Newport News, Clifton R. Clark (Kristy) of Smithfield, and Alissa Ellis of Surry; grandchildren, Andrew (Jessica), Brandy (John), Corey (Candice), Josh, Paige, Brandon, Ethan, Brittany, Jonathan, Kaitlyn, Michael, Cassey, Corey, Isaiah and Jeremiah; six great-grandchildren; life-long friend, Sharen Talley, along with a host of extended family and friends, all who will sorely miss Sherry.

At the age of 16, Sherry was employed at Roses Department Store. Later, she worked at Giant Open Air Market, Howard Johnsons Motel, and Miller & Rhoads department store.  She continued her management career working at the Fashion Bug department store, at Home Quarters Warehouse, and finally Lowe’s Home Improvement Store.

Upon meeting her husband, Raleigh, in 1988, Sherry moved to Smithfield.  For the past 30 years, she has worked mules, raised farm animals and her beloved pomeranians.  She and Raleigh have showed mules at the Isle of Wight County Fair where she chaired the livestock committee.  They have given wagon rides at Chippokes Plantation and the Newport News Fall Festival and Children’s Festival.  For the past 10 years, Sherry has been a member of the OVPR, enjoying camping and hosting the semi-annual ladies tea.

A service celebrating Sherry’s life will be held Saturday, Dec. 9, 4 p.m. in Colonial Funeral Home, with the Rev. Jeff Cannon officiating.  The family will receive friends following the service.  Burial will be private.

The family suggests memorial contributions to Isle of Wight Relay for Life, c/o Pam Jordan, 18214 Farmview Road, Windsor, VA  23487.
Service arrangements are in the care of Colonial Funeral Home, 14214 Carrollton Blvd. Carrollton. Family and friends are encouraged to share condolences and remembrances at colonialfuneralhomesmithfield.com.