Willie Perry Sherrell

The Rev. Willie Perry Sherrell, age 84, of Dover, went to be with his Lord and Savior on Wednesday, January 13, 2010, from University Hospital at Cleveland.Born at Midvale, November 6, 1925, he was the son of the late Enoch and Lena (Chandler) Sherrell. Following graduation from Midvale High School, he served honorably in the United States Navy.Rev. Sherrell lead a life of passionate service to his church, his community, and his Lord. He was first ordained Deacon on the First Baptist Church in 1979. Three years later, Willie was ordained Evangelist . He lead the congregation at First Baptist Church at Dover as interim minister, before serving as pastor of Mt. Olive Missionary Baptist Church at Dennison for seven years. Willie retired from a career at the former Reeves Steel in 1989, but he remained instrumental in the ministry of his church all the days of his life. Together with his loving wife of fifty-six years, Iommiesene “Sene” Ray Sherrell, whom he wed May 2, 1953, at Dover, they shared the gospel by making beautiful music. The Healing Waters Ministries, a family group lead in singing by Rev. Sherrell, also included his wife on the keyboards while singing alongside her husband, and their son, Ray, who played drums.Rev. and Mrs. Sherrell reared two sons, Ray (wife, Kim A.) Sherrell of New Philadelphia, and Dennis Sherrell of Columbus. Ray recalls always having a strong supportive father who provided for the family’s every need. He’ll be deeply missed by his granddaughter, Makaya Sherrell and her infant daughter, Jahzara Raylene Sherrell; Willie’s two brothers; The Revs. Joseph (wife, Faye) Sherrell of Akron and Robert (wife, Jacqueline) Sherrell of Dover. A close friend and brother-in-law; Curtis Ray of Nevada; and a host of nieces and nephews complete the family. In addition to his parents, Willie was preceded in death by his two sisters and four brothers. Friends are invited to call Sunday, January 17, 2010, from 2PM Â? 6PM in the Geib Funeral Center at 5600 North Wooster Avenue, Dover. The Rev.’s Chris Lowery and Isaac Woods will lead a Homegoing Service Monday morning, January 18, 2010, at 11 AM in the First Baptist Church on Regent Street, Dover. Burial with military honors will follow in Dover Burial Park. Following the committal at the cemetery, family and friends will gather for a repast luncheon in the Geib Funeral Center at Dover, adjacent to Dover Burial Park. Memorial contributions may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice. Geib Funeral Center at Dover(330) 343-5506www.geibcares.com