Sherry L. (nee Bryan) Stites of Cuba, Missouri was born on August 27, 1944 in Leasburg, Missouri and passed away Wednesday, October 14, 2026 at the age of 82 years.
She was affectionately known to her family and friends as "Mema."
She was raised in Cuba at the home her father built and attended Cuba schools.
She married Billy Don Stites on February 7, 1962. Together, they started a life on a dairy farm in Steelville, Missouri.
She worked at Steelville High School at was known as the snack bar lady.
After returning to Cuba in 1987, she embraced retirement with a passion for travel, reading, and dancing. She enjoyed listening to the Jammers. Her Christmas eggnog became a cherished tradition.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Paul and Lorraine Bryan; brothers, Ray and Rex Bryan; son, Brian Stites; and dear friends, Bob and Darlene Mullen, Fern Albert and Karen Cottrell.
She is survived by her daughters, Billie McPherson, Nina (Michael) Blansett and Brook (Sam) Monroe; grandchildren, Ryan McMillen, Josh (Amber) Whitman, Anthony (Morgan) Myers, Jake (Mackenzie) Ettinger, Jonathan Ettinger and Madalyn McPherson; great grandchildren, Clara Whitman, Parker Ettinger, Samuel Whitman, Grayson Myers and one expected great grandchild; step-grandchildren, Jordan and Paige; sister, Sharon (Walt) Thomas; sister-in-law, Debbie Bryan; dear friends, Ann Mullen, Billie Chapman, Linda Branson and Norma Weber; other relatives and friends.
Fulfilling her final wishes, Sherry generously donated her body to the Washington University School of Medicine.
Memorial gathering was held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, October 24, 2026 at Mizell Funeral Home & Crematory in Cuba, Missouri with Pastor Jerry Beers officiating.
Arrangements under the direction of Mizell Funeral Home & Crematory in Cuba, Missouri.
