Thank you to the Clearwater Chamber of Commerce and to Frank Chivas for continuing to raise money for the Sherri Callahan Memorial Trust. We truly appreciate it!
EMAIL bclifford@clearwaterflorida.org for purchasing information
Friday, June 24, 2011
Friday, June 17, 2011
Thank you
I want to Thank everyone for their comments, prayers, and kind gestures. I have never been so proud of Sherri as I was over the past several weeks. I loved hearing the stories from co-workers and friends of the amazing way she pulled things together or how she "saved" them on different occasions. I was especially moved by the generosity of so many, including Frank Chavez for the reception after the funeral as well as the dinner packages that started off the donations to the memorial trust established for the kids. Also, all of you from The Jazz Holiday who put on an amazing tribute to Sherri Sunday evening. I know she was looking down smiling!!! (probably with a To Do list).
Although life goes on, my family and I will continue our quest to raise money for Sherri's children, Bailey and Maddie. We are also discussing the idea of raising awareness for Rheumatoid Arthritis and the potential risks involved with the medications that are available to treat this condition. We will keep you posted on these efforts.
Again, thank you. Our family will be forever grateful!!!!!
Heather
Pictures
Here are two more photos of Sherri that we love. Please email susanpmoss@gmail.com if you would like to share with us some of your favorite Sherri photos. We will add them to the blog.
Thanks
Michelle Gallagher Read this Poem at the Sunday Tribute to Sherri
If tears could build a stairway
And memories were a lane
We would walk right up to heaven
And bring you back again.
No farewell words were spoken
No time to say goodbye
You were gone before we knew it
And only God knows why.
Our hearts ache in sadness
And tears still flow,
What it meant to lose you
No one can ever know.
But now we know you want us
To mourn for you no more,
To remember the happy times,
Life still has so much in store
Since you will never be forgotten
We pledge to you today
A hallow place within our hearts
Will forever stay.
Author Unknown
And memories were a lane
We would walk right up to heaven
And bring you back again.
No farewell words were spoken
No time to say goodbye
You were gone before we knew it
And only God knows why.
Our hearts ache in sadness
And tears still flow,
What it meant to lose you
No one can ever know.
But now we know you want us
To mourn for you no more,
To remember the happy times,
Life still has so much in store
Since you will never be forgotten
We pledge to you today
A hallow place within our hearts
Will forever stay.
Author Unknown
Kathryn Pankow Read this Poem at Sherri's Funeral
I am standing upon the seashore.
A ship at my side spreads her white
sails to the morning breeze and starts
for the blue ocean.
She is an object of beauty and strength.
I stand and watch her until at length
she hangs like a speck of white cloud
just where the sea and sky come
to mingle with each other.
Then, someone at my side says;
"There, she is gone!"
"Gone where?"
Gone from my sight. That is all.
She is just as large in mast and hull
and spar as she was when she left my side
and she is just as able to bear her
load of living freight to her destined port.
Her diminished size is in me, not in her.
And just at the moment when someone
at my side says, "There, she is gone!"
There are other eyes watching her coming,
and other voices ready to take up the glad shout:
"Here she comes!"
From a poem by Henry Van Dyke
A ship at my side spreads her white
sails to the morning breeze and starts
for the blue ocean.
She is an object of beauty and strength.
I stand and watch her until at length
she hangs like a speck of white cloud
just where the sea and sky come
to mingle with each other.
Then, someone at my side says;
"There, she is gone!"
"Gone where?"
Gone from my sight. That is all.
She is just as large in mast and hull
and spar as she was when she left my side
and she is just as able to bear her
load of living freight to her destined port.
Her diminished size is in me, not in her.
And just at the moment when someone
at my side says, "There, she is gone!"
There are other eyes watching her coming,
and other voices ready to take up the glad shout:
"Here she comes!"
From a poem by Henry Van Dyke
Pastor Randy Evans Comments from Sherri's Funeral
MEMORIAL SERVICE FOR SHERRI P CALLAHAN
GRACE CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP
SATURDAY, JUNE 4, 2011
Funerals or memorial services are always difficult; they are never happy occasions. Even when I have officiated a service for an elderly saint of the church, although I can share with the family and friends a sense of satisfaction and peace in knowing that their loved one had lived a long life and is now enjoying their eternal rest with their Lord Jesus that they have yearned for all of their life, it is still a painful time.
But when I have to officiate a service for someone like Sherri Callahan – a believer who has suddenly and unexpectedly left us because of an illness – a child of God who was so full of life, energy, and personality – well, it’s all the more difficult – even though we have a complete and utter confidence that she is with Jesus.
Every one of us here today is shocked and saddened by the passing of our dear Sherri – a devoted mother, sister, daughter, and princess of the King of kings.
Today we have gathered here at Sherri’s church to remember, grieve, and yet celebrate the life of our sister-in-Christ and friend Sherri Callahan.
So, on behalf of the Callahan, Pankow, Williams, Moss, and Cayo families, I want to thank all of you for coming out to this morning’s service as we participate in this rite of passage in honor of Sherri Pankow Callahan.
For anyone here this morning that may not know, I am Pastor Randy Evans of this church - Grace Christian Fellowship – the church that Sherri and her family called home for many years.
At times like this we can be thankful for the presence of God’s Holy Spirit, who is called the Comforter. The Word of God tells us in the Book of Isaiah that the Lord is well acquainted with our grief and it is His desire to lift our hearts as well as comfort us all during this time. The Lord also comforts His children through His Word – the Bible – and at this time I would like to read for us two different portions of Scripture.
First, I’d like to read one of the most familiar and comforting passages of in all the Scripture – the 23rd Psalm. And then I’d like to read from the New Testament a portion of Scripture that many have found comforted, especially at a time like this – John 14:1-7.
Psalm 23:
The Lord is my shepherd, I shall lack nothing.
He makes me lie down in green pastures,
He leads me beside quiet waters, He restores my soul.
He guides me in paths of righteousness for
His names’ sake.
Even though I walk through the valley of the
shadow of death, I will fear no evil,
for You are with me;
Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.
You prepare a table before
me in the presence of my enemies.
You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.
Surely goodness and love will follow me all the
days of my life, and I will dwell
in the house of the Lord forever.
And now John 14:1-7 –
‘Do not let your hearts be troubled.
Trust in God; trust also in Me.
In My Father's house are many rooms; if it were not so,
I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you,
I will come back and take you to be with Me
that you also may be where I am.
You know the way to the place where I am going.’
Thomas said to Him, ‘Lord, we don't know where
You are going, so how can we know the way?’
Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth
and the life. No one comes to the Father
except through Me. If you really knew Me,
you would know My Father as well. From now on,
you do know Him and have seen Him.’
Sherri loved music. So at this time to honor our Lord, as well as audibly acknowledge Sherri’s love for great music, let’s all sing the great hymn of the church, “How Great Thou Art”.
SONG: HOW GREAT THOU ART
PRAY
READING: At this time Kathryn Pankow – Sherri’s sister – is going to read a poem for us.
BIOGRAPHY:
Sherri Callahan was born on July 6, 1965 in Fort Myers, Florida and went home to be with the Lord on June 2, 2011.
Sherri was preceded in death by her mother, Carole Pankow, who passed away in 2005. Sherri is survived by her two children – son Bailey and daughter Madison of Belleair; their father Mark Callahan of Belleair; her boyfriend Don Cayo of Tampa; her father and step-mother – Jerry and Pat Pankow of Tampa; her brother Rich Pankow of Tennessee; and sisters Heather Williams of Texas; Susan Moss of Virginia; and Kathryn Pankow of Tampa.
Sherri was a Florida girl through and through. Born and raised in Ft. Myers – went to college in Orlando – and lived most of her adult life here in the Clearwater/Largo/Belleair area.
Sherri graduated from Ft Myers High School, and received her AA degree from Valencia Community College in Orlando. Prior to working with the Clearwater Chamber of Commerce Sherri was very busy working with Mark in their family owned bottled water company - Callahan Water.
As every one of us here knows, Sherri was full of life. Her effervescent personality lit up any room that she walked into. She was quick-witted, personable, assertive, spontaneous, outspoken, and loveable. As I mentioned earlier Sherri loved music, loved to sing, enjoyed scrapbooking, and had an earnest passion for whatever she was involved in.
As can be attested by the number of people that are here from the City of Clearwater, and the responses the family and church have received from area businesses and individuals, Sherri was well loved and respected for the work that she did for the Chamber of Commerce and her important love and devotion and hard work with the annual Clearwater Jazz Holiday.
But Sherri was indeed happiest and most fulfilled when she was with her children – and all who knew her were aware of her love and passion for her two lovely children.
In a moment you will hear from others who were close to Sherri, but first we are going to hear a great old hymn of the church ‘Be Still My Soul’, sung by Kirk Blank.
KIRK’S SONG
At this time I would like Rich Pankow to come forward to share a few words, and then we will hear from Bob Childress, Sherri’s employer.
EULOGIES:
RICH
BOB
HOMILY: RANDY
Death is inevitable for mankind, but it is still a shock – especially when it comes to a lively and still relatively young woman like Sherri.
As difficult as it may be for all of us to grasp the painful fact that Sherri is no longer with us, there is no mystery – no wondering – no doubts as to where Sherri is this very moment. God’s Word makes it very clear as to her whereabouts. We read in Paul’s First Letter to the Corinthian Church – To be absent of the body is to be in the presence of the Lord.
As Christians we have the assurance of eternal life through our faith in Jesus Christ. The moment Sherri came to faith in Christ years ago her future was guaranteed. Her home – her residency – her citizenship was, is, and always will be in the Lord’s presence, and there she now finds her rest, her peace, her healing, and her comfort.
Not only is Sherri now free from any lung conditions or bodily infections, she is enjoying something that we believers all long for – to be in the glorious presence of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Jesus promised to all of His children that faith or trust in Him – in the meaning of His life, death, and resurrection – would ensure a place in His family and eternally in His presence. In John 11:25 we read these words of security from Jesus:
I am the resurrection and the life.
He who believes in Me will live, even though he dies;
and whoever lives and believes in Me will never die.
So, we can rest assured this day that Sherri is safely wrapped in the arms of her God and her Savior – Jesus Christ. Even though Sherri went home earlier than any of us would have anticipated, Sherri has fought the good fight – she has run and finished the race – and Jesus has taken Sherri into His arms and softly spoken Welcome Home child. Well done good and faithful servant. Come and share your Master’s happiness!
Now, at a funeral or memorial service it is very typical and normal to focus our attention on the life and times of our loved one who has passed away – and that we have done. For the believer who has died it is also appropriate to reassure all who are present that their loved one is safe and at peace with the Lord.
But so often we forget why we really have these services. As much as they may honor the deceased, and assure us of their presence with the Lord, in reality, the funeral or memorial service is really for those who are left.
Sherri has gone to her eternal rest – and those of us who know the Lord have the guarantee that we will see her again - but we who are left still must deal with our grief. Although 45 is far too young to pass away, Sherri lived a good, exciting, and fulfilling life by comparison to many in this world, but again, her loss still strikes us as sudden.
We don’t understand how and why things happen the way they do in this world. I’m sure every one of us has questions as to why this has happened, and I would be a presumptuous fool if I claimed to have the perfect answer as to why Sherri had to leave us so soon and suddenly. We humans have a strong tendency to determine or find an answer to every problem that we face, but sometimes we have to just stop and realize that there are some things in this life that are just a mystery and out of our control and understanding. But that doesn’t mean that we must remain completely in the dark, and think that this world is capricious, arbitrary, and random - without any order or stability.
Although we may not or do not know why Sherri was taken from us – other than a medical explanation – we do know – or at least those who know the Lord and trust His Word and His wise and benevolent character – know – this: God is sovereign (He is in control of all things); He is omnipotent (He has all power to do anything He desires to do); He is benevolent (He is good and desires good things for His children); and He loves His children.
We can trust God – even in our grief and confusion – that God really does care for us, and despite the mysterious nature of the sad events before us – we can rest in all assurance that the Lord is with us, understands our pain, and will take us through this storm.
We can trust that – according to the Word of God - the Lord is the giver and taker of life, the footsteps of the righteous are ordered of the Lord, and not even a sparrow falls to the ground without the Lord - not only being aware of it, but being in control of that sparrow as well. As Ecclesiastes 3:1-2 tells us:
There is a time for everything, and a season for
every activity under Heaven:
A time to be born and a time to die.
Although we can trust that God knows what He is doing – we still grieve the loss of a loved one. Grief is that unpleasant feeling we have when we have lost something or someone that we love or value. And again, our grief in this situation is somewhat softened because of the fact that Sherri knew the Lord - but we still miss her.
At every funeral or memorial service I always like to share certain thoughts about grief because I believe an understanding of our sorrow is essential (and often neglected). Admitting, confronting and dealing with this sadness it is essential to our personal growth and enables us to move forward in our life.
Sometimes even Christians don’t want to acknowledge their grief and would rather just focus on the biblical truth that their loved one is with Jesus, which is certainly a cause to truly celebrate. But we can’t deny that we still hurt. My intention is not to drum up or force us to be sad. Actually, it is just the opposite. By understanding our grief we will actually be able to rise above it – in due time.
There are three important things to remember about our grief: first, it is normal. All humans and even other animals grieve when loss occurs. We aren’t to deny it – we shouldn’t try to be strong – and we aren’t to believe the lie that true believers shouldn’t grieve because we know our loved one is in Heaven.
Although it is true that 1 Thessalonians 4:13 tells us that we – as Christians – don’t grieve as the rest of the world does that has no hope – that is not to imply that Christians don’t need to grieve.
That’s not what that verse teaches. We read here that we are to grieve – but we don’t grieve in such a pitiful and hopeless manner as unbelievers might – and we don’t because we that are Christians have hope. We know Whom we have believed in. So, we grieve – grief is normal – but it’s not a hopeless grief. Grief is our body and soul’s way of dealing with the loss.
Our grief may include some anger, some disappointment, or sadness; you may be very verbal and expressive, or you may become very quiet. You may even laugh at times and you may certainly cry. It is very unhealthy for any of us to physically, emotionally and spiritually deny the feelings that we may be experiencing – no matter what they may be.
The shortest verse in the Bible is found in John 11:35, where it simply says two words, Jesus wept. Jesus was crying because His friend Lazarus had died. The people around Him even commented when they saw His tears: Look how much He loved Him! Jesus cried or grieved the lost of His friend even though He was going to raise Lazarus from the dead within a minute. If Jesus, the Son of God, can grieve the lost of a loved one then so can we. So, number one: our grief is normal.
The second thing to remember about grief is related to the first. Yes, it is perfectly normal for humans to grieve the loss of a loved one – but we should also realize that grief is necessary. Grief is our body and mind’s way of buffeting the pain, while still allowing the person to experience the loss. Grief is actually a gift from God that allows us to deal with, and face our loss, in order that we might regroup and move forward with Him.
Although the scriptures don’t speak specifically about this necessity of grief, we see very clearly that people in the Scriptures were expected to take time to reflect, feel the pain, adjust and recover from their loss. We see this is in Genesis with the prescribed time of mourning when Jacob died, as well as with the passing of Moses and others.
If we don’t grieve, we don’t adjust. If we don’t come to grips with the loss, we ourselves will be loss. Again, grieve - however you need to grieve. It is the normal and necessary reaction to any loss.
Now, again, I’m trying not to be negative and gloomy. I just want us to understand the truth so that while we rejoice that Sherri is with Jesus and we will soon – maybe even over our fellowship time after the service, or dinner later on – be laughing at some of the things Sherri said and did - we can also acknowledge our pain and not feel that there’s something wrong with us.
My third point is good news: Not only is grief normal and necessary, but it is also temporary. At times like this we think that the pain may never go away - but it will. Psalm 30:5 tells us, Weeping may remain for a night but rejoicing comes in the morning.
This isn’t to imply that our grief will be over in a day but it does remind us that our grief will dissipate in time. This is why we have funerals and memorial services. This is a rite of passage and is necessary to bring closure and encourage the healing of grief.
So, we aren’t to rush our grief, yet we shouldn’t wallow in it either. We will always have our memories of Sherri and for a while they may be tainted with some pain because of the loss, but as I said, in time the memories will become sweet and enjoyable.
The Lord delights in bringing healing to our souls so He wants us to understand that this grief is normal, necessary, and temporary. The Lord understands. As I said at the beginning of this message: God’s Word clearly tells us in Isaiah 53:3 that the Lord is well acquainted with our grief.
Before I make some closing remarks to us all to consider this morning, I would like Al Ruechel, our Sunday morning music leader, to sing a song that has always ministered to those who are grieving the loss of a loved one, yet who also find comfort that their loved one is Jesus.
AL’S SONG – FLY TO JESUS
As a believer – as a woman who, by God’s grace, put her faith in Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior, Sherri has flown to Jesus. There is one last thing we need to keep in mind this morning: One of the other reasons we feel sadness at the passing of a loved one is because their death brings eternity into our own minds and this causes us to think of our own mortality. So, as these thoughts enter our minds it is important that we take some time to reflect on eternal things.
Memorial services cause us to see the brevity of our life, and thoughts concerning our own existence and spiritual condition are placed before us. This isn’t the time to ignore these matters - for our eternal destiny is of utmost importance. We don’t have to wonder about our destiny. We can have the full assurance of the afterlife with Jesus just as Sherri received when she came to faith.
We must understand that our good works and accomplishments, as wonderful as they may be, do not win, buy or guarantee our entrance into Heaven. Sherri Callahan isn’t in the Lord’s presence today because she was a good person – although she certainly was by human standards.
She’s not in Heaven today because she was a patriotic American, or an outstanding advocate and supporter of the City of Clearwater, or because she prayed, was baptized, or celebrated the Lord’s Supper, or because she once hosted one of our ladies Bibles studies in her home. Sherri is not in Heaven today because she was a good neighbor, or because she loved her family, her children, and her friends.
Sherri is in the presence of the Lord today because of one reason and one reason only. Sherri is with Jesus – healed and at peace - because she trusted her life and eternity in Jesus Christ, which was given to her by the Grace of God.
When Sherri came to faith so many years ago she realized that she could not save herself or have her sins forgiven and her guilt washed away by living a good life – even a good religious life. Salvation, forgiveness, and assurance only came to her through her faith in Jesus Christ.
One of the most definitive verses in all the Scripture – taken from a portion that I read earlier from John 14, said it very plainly when Jesus said I am the Way, the Truth and the Life. No one comes to the Father except through Me. It is our faith in the Lord Jesus Christ that enables us to be called children of God.
Other than the 23rd Psalm the most famous Bible verse is John 3:16 and it sums up all the theology that you need: For God so loved the world that He gave His only Son, that whosoever believes in Him shall not perish but will have everlasting life.
So I know that Sherri would want me to ask all of you this simple question: Is all well between you and the Lord this day? Let’s examine our own hearts and do what is right so that we can enjoy the fruit of that relationship we can have with Him. Jesus said that He came to give us life and life more abundantly. Our salvation is not something we work for or earn – it is a gift from God. That’s what Grace is: God’s undeserved favor – His kindness in saving us – that’s Grace. We are saved or forgiven, and placed in a loving relationship with the Lord by His Grace – His free gift of life to us.
So, in our short time together this morning we have remembered and celebrated the wonderful life of Sherri Callahan, and have been comforted in knowing that our grief is normal, necessary and temporary.
I also know that all who are here this morning can be thankful that you not only knew Sherri, but that Sherri – in some small or large way – added love and joy to your life. In our sadness we can still find comfort and satisfaction in the fact that not only is Sherri now at her eternal rest and at peace, but that knowing her has enriched our lives.
I found out something yesterday that really touched me about Sherri’s influence. One of our dear friends and members here at Grace Christian Fellowship, who has found spiritual peace and a much deeper relationship with Jesus while attending Grace, is Angela Willsey; and Angela told me that it was Sherri who told her to come to Grace so many years ago. I had not been aware of that fact until this week.
Sherri has touched all of our lives, and her influence and love will continue to touch people in this sanctuary and around this community. I pray that you have found some comfort in the words that were spoken today, and most importantly, that you have been comforted by the presence of God’s Holy Spirit. We rejoice at Sherri’s heavenly homecoming although from our side of eternity it may for a while seem bittersweet.
And we ask the Lord to continue to manifest His peace to His children – a peace (as His Word tells us) that passes all understanding. Let’s close by singing Amazing Grace, and I’ll dismiss us in prayer….
GRACE CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP
SATURDAY, JUNE 4, 2011
Funerals or memorial services are always difficult; they are never happy occasions. Even when I have officiated a service for an elderly saint of the church, although I can share with the family and friends a sense of satisfaction and peace in knowing that their loved one had lived a long life and is now enjoying their eternal rest with their Lord Jesus that they have yearned for all of their life, it is still a painful time.
But when I have to officiate a service for someone like Sherri Callahan – a believer who has suddenly and unexpectedly left us because of an illness – a child of God who was so full of life, energy, and personality – well, it’s all the more difficult – even though we have a complete and utter confidence that she is with Jesus.
Every one of us here today is shocked and saddened by the passing of our dear Sherri – a devoted mother, sister, daughter, and princess of the King of kings.
Today we have gathered here at Sherri’s church to remember, grieve, and yet celebrate the life of our sister-in-Christ and friend Sherri Callahan.
So, on behalf of the Callahan, Pankow, Williams, Moss, and Cayo families, I want to thank all of you for coming out to this morning’s service as we participate in this rite of passage in honor of Sherri Pankow Callahan.
For anyone here this morning that may not know, I am Pastor Randy Evans of this church - Grace Christian Fellowship – the church that Sherri and her family called home for many years.
At times like this we can be thankful for the presence of God’s Holy Spirit, who is called the Comforter. The Word of God tells us in the Book of Isaiah that the Lord is well acquainted with our grief and it is His desire to lift our hearts as well as comfort us all during this time. The Lord also comforts His children through His Word – the Bible – and at this time I would like to read for us two different portions of Scripture.
First, I’d like to read one of the most familiar and comforting passages of in all the Scripture – the 23rd Psalm. And then I’d like to read from the New Testament a portion of Scripture that many have found comforted, especially at a time like this – John 14:1-7.
Psalm 23:
The Lord is my shepherd, I shall lack nothing.
He makes me lie down in green pastures,
He leads me beside quiet waters, He restores my soul.
He guides me in paths of righteousness for
His names’ sake.
Even though I walk through the valley of the
shadow of death, I will fear no evil,
for You are with me;
Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.
You prepare a table before
me in the presence of my enemies.
You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.
Surely goodness and love will follow me all the
days of my life, and I will dwell
in the house of the Lord forever.
And now John 14:1-7 –
‘Do not let your hearts be troubled.
Trust in God; trust also in Me.
In My Father's house are many rooms; if it were not so,
I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you,
I will come back and take you to be with Me
that you also may be where I am.
You know the way to the place where I am going.’
Thomas said to Him, ‘Lord, we don't know where
You are going, so how can we know the way?’
Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth
and the life. No one comes to the Father
except through Me. If you really knew Me,
you would know My Father as well. From now on,
you do know Him and have seen Him.’
Sherri loved music. So at this time to honor our Lord, as well as audibly acknowledge Sherri’s love for great music, let’s all sing the great hymn of the church, “How Great Thou Art”.
SONG: HOW GREAT THOU ART
PRAY
READING: At this time Kathryn Pankow – Sherri’s sister – is going to read a poem for us.
BIOGRAPHY:
Sherri Callahan was born on July 6, 1965 in Fort Myers, Florida and went home to be with the Lord on June 2, 2011.
Sherri was preceded in death by her mother, Carole Pankow, who passed away in 2005. Sherri is survived by her two children – son Bailey and daughter Madison of Belleair; their father Mark Callahan of Belleair; her boyfriend Don Cayo of Tampa; her father and step-mother – Jerry and Pat Pankow of Tampa; her brother Rich Pankow of Tennessee; and sisters Heather Williams of Texas; Susan Moss of Virginia; and Kathryn Pankow of Tampa.
Sherri was a Florida girl through and through. Born and raised in Ft. Myers – went to college in Orlando – and lived most of her adult life here in the Clearwater/Largo/Belleair area.
Sherri graduated from Ft Myers High School, and received her AA degree from Valencia Community College in Orlando. Prior to working with the Clearwater Chamber of Commerce Sherri was very busy working with Mark in their family owned bottled water company - Callahan Water.
As every one of us here knows, Sherri was full of life. Her effervescent personality lit up any room that she walked into. She was quick-witted, personable, assertive, spontaneous, outspoken, and loveable. As I mentioned earlier Sherri loved music, loved to sing, enjoyed scrapbooking, and had an earnest passion for whatever she was involved in.
As can be attested by the number of people that are here from the City of Clearwater, and the responses the family and church have received from area businesses and individuals, Sherri was well loved and respected for the work that she did for the Chamber of Commerce and her important love and devotion and hard work with the annual Clearwater Jazz Holiday.
But Sherri was indeed happiest and most fulfilled when she was with her children – and all who knew her were aware of her love and passion for her two lovely children.
In a moment you will hear from others who were close to Sherri, but first we are going to hear a great old hymn of the church ‘Be Still My Soul’, sung by Kirk Blank.
KIRK’S SONG
At this time I would like Rich Pankow to come forward to share a few words, and then we will hear from Bob Childress, Sherri’s employer.
EULOGIES:
RICH
BOB
HOMILY: RANDY
Death is inevitable for mankind, but it is still a shock – especially when it comes to a lively and still relatively young woman like Sherri.
As difficult as it may be for all of us to grasp the painful fact that Sherri is no longer with us, there is no mystery – no wondering – no doubts as to where Sherri is this very moment. God’s Word makes it very clear as to her whereabouts. We read in Paul’s First Letter to the Corinthian Church – To be absent of the body is to be in the presence of the Lord.
As Christians we have the assurance of eternal life through our faith in Jesus Christ. The moment Sherri came to faith in Christ years ago her future was guaranteed. Her home – her residency – her citizenship was, is, and always will be in the Lord’s presence, and there she now finds her rest, her peace, her healing, and her comfort.
Not only is Sherri now free from any lung conditions or bodily infections, she is enjoying something that we believers all long for – to be in the glorious presence of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Jesus promised to all of His children that faith or trust in Him – in the meaning of His life, death, and resurrection – would ensure a place in His family and eternally in His presence. In John 11:25 we read these words of security from Jesus:
I am the resurrection and the life.
He who believes in Me will live, even though he dies;
and whoever lives and believes in Me will never die.
So, we can rest assured this day that Sherri is safely wrapped in the arms of her God and her Savior – Jesus Christ. Even though Sherri went home earlier than any of us would have anticipated, Sherri has fought the good fight – she has run and finished the race – and Jesus has taken Sherri into His arms and softly spoken Welcome Home child. Well done good and faithful servant. Come and share your Master’s happiness!
Now, at a funeral or memorial service it is very typical and normal to focus our attention on the life and times of our loved one who has passed away – and that we have done. For the believer who has died it is also appropriate to reassure all who are present that their loved one is safe and at peace with the Lord.
But so often we forget why we really have these services. As much as they may honor the deceased, and assure us of their presence with the Lord, in reality, the funeral or memorial service is really for those who are left.
Sherri has gone to her eternal rest – and those of us who know the Lord have the guarantee that we will see her again - but we who are left still must deal with our grief. Although 45 is far too young to pass away, Sherri lived a good, exciting, and fulfilling life by comparison to many in this world, but again, her loss still strikes us as sudden.
We don’t understand how and why things happen the way they do in this world. I’m sure every one of us has questions as to why this has happened, and I would be a presumptuous fool if I claimed to have the perfect answer as to why Sherri had to leave us so soon and suddenly. We humans have a strong tendency to determine or find an answer to every problem that we face, but sometimes we have to just stop and realize that there are some things in this life that are just a mystery and out of our control and understanding. But that doesn’t mean that we must remain completely in the dark, and think that this world is capricious, arbitrary, and random - without any order or stability.
Although we may not or do not know why Sherri was taken from us – other than a medical explanation – we do know – or at least those who know the Lord and trust His Word and His wise and benevolent character – know – this: God is sovereign (He is in control of all things); He is omnipotent (He has all power to do anything He desires to do); He is benevolent (He is good and desires good things for His children); and He loves His children.
We can trust God – even in our grief and confusion – that God really does care for us, and despite the mysterious nature of the sad events before us – we can rest in all assurance that the Lord is with us, understands our pain, and will take us through this storm.
We can trust that – according to the Word of God - the Lord is the giver and taker of life, the footsteps of the righteous are ordered of the Lord, and not even a sparrow falls to the ground without the Lord - not only being aware of it, but being in control of that sparrow as well. As Ecclesiastes 3:1-2 tells us:
There is a time for everything, and a season for
every activity under Heaven:
A time to be born and a time to die.
Although we can trust that God knows what He is doing – we still grieve the loss of a loved one. Grief is that unpleasant feeling we have when we have lost something or someone that we love or value. And again, our grief in this situation is somewhat softened because of the fact that Sherri knew the Lord - but we still miss her.
At every funeral or memorial service I always like to share certain thoughts about grief because I believe an understanding of our sorrow is essential (and often neglected). Admitting, confronting and dealing with this sadness it is essential to our personal growth and enables us to move forward in our life.
Sometimes even Christians don’t want to acknowledge their grief and would rather just focus on the biblical truth that their loved one is with Jesus, which is certainly a cause to truly celebrate. But we can’t deny that we still hurt. My intention is not to drum up or force us to be sad. Actually, it is just the opposite. By understanding our grief we will actually be able to rise above it – in due time.
There are three important things to remember about our grief: first, it is normal. All humans and even other animals grieve when loss occurs. We aren’t to deny it – we shouldn’t try to be strong – and we aren’t to believe the lie that true believers shouldn’t grieve because we know our loved one is in Heaven.
Although it is true that 1 Thessalonians 4:13 tells us that we – as Christians – don’t grieve as the rest of the world does that has no hope – that is not to imply that Christians don’t need to grieve.
That’s not what that verse teaches. We read here that we are to grieve – but we don’t grieve in such a pitiful and hopeless manner as unbelievers might – and we don’t because we that are Christians have hope. We know Whom we have believed in. So, we grieve – grief is normal – but it’s not a hopeless grief. Grief is our body and soul’s way of dealing with the loss.
Our grief may include some anger, some disappointment, or sadness; you may be very verbal and expressive, or you may become very quiet. You may even laugh at times and you may certainly cry. It is very unhealthy for any of us to physically, emotionally and spiritually deny the feelings that we may be experiencing – no matter what they may be.
The shortest verse in the Bible is found in John 11:35, where it simply says two words, Jesus wept. Jesus was crying because His friend Lazarus had died. The people around Him even commented when they saw His tears: Look how much He loved Him! Jesus cried or grieved the lost of His friend even though He was going to raise Lazarus from the dead within a minute. If Jesus, the Son of God, can grieve the lost of a loved one then so can we. So, number one: our grief is normal.
The second thing to remember about grief is related to the first. Yes, it is perfectly normal for humans to grieve the loss of a loved one – but we should also realize that grief is necessary. Grief is our body and mind’s way of buffeting the pain, while still allowing the person to experience the loss. Grief is actually a gift from God that allows us to deal with, and face our loss, in order that we might regroup and move forward with Him.
Although the scriptures don’t speak specifically about this necessity of grief, we see very clearly that people in the Scriptures were expected to take time to reflect, feel the pain, adjust and recover from their loss. We see this is in Genesis with the prescribed time of mourning when Jacob died, as well as with the passing of Moses and others.
If we don’t grieve, we don’t adjust. If we don’t come to grips with the loss, we ourselves will be loss. Again, grieve - however you need to grieve. It is the normal and necessary reaction to any loss.
Now, again, I’m trying not to be negative and gloomy. I just want us to understand the truth so that while we rejoice that Sherri is with Jesus and we will soon – maybe even over our fellowship time after the service, or dinner later on – be laughing at some of the things Sherri said and did - we can also acknowledge our pain and not feel that there’s something wrong with us.
My third point is good news: Not only is grief normal and necessary, but it is also temporary. At times like this we think that the pain may never go away - but it will. Psalm 30:5 tells us, Weeping may remain for a night but rejoicing comes in the morning.
This isn’t to imply that our grief will be over in a day but it does remind us that our grief will dissipate in time. This is why we have funerals and memorial services. This is a rite of passage and is necessary to bring closure and encourage the healing of grief.
So, we aren’t to rush our grief, yet we shouldn’t wallow in it either. We will always have our memories of Sherri and for a while they may be tainted with some pain because of the loss, but as I said, in time the memories will become sweet and enjoyable.
The Lord delights in bringing healing to our souls so He wants us to understand that this grief is normal, necessary, and temporary. The Lord understands. As I said at the beginning of this message: God’s Word clearly tells us in Isaiah 53:3 that the Lord is well acquainted with our grief.
Before I make some closing remarks to us all to consider this morning, I would like Al Ruechel, our Sunday morning music leader, to sing a song that has always ministered to those who are grieving the loss of a loved one, yet who also find comfort that their loved one is Jesus.
AL’S SONG – FLY TO JESUS
As a believer – as a woman who, by God’s grace, put her faith in Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior, Sherri has flown to Jesus. There is one last thing we need to keep in mind this morning: One of the other reasons we feel sadness at the passing of a loved one is because their death brings eternity into our own minds and this causes us to think of our own mortality. So, as these thoughts enter our minds it is important that we take some time to reflect on eternal things.
Memorial services cause us to see the brevity of our life, and thoughts concerning our own existence and spiritual condition are placed before us. This isn’t the time to ignore these matters - for our eternal destiny is of utmost importance. We don’t have to wonder about our destiny. We can have the full assurance of the afterlife with Jesus just as Sherri received when she came to faith.
We must understand that our good works and accomplishments, as wonderful as they may be, do not win, buy or guarantee our entrance into Heaven. Sherri Callahan isn’t in the Lord’s presence today because she was a good person – although she certainly was by human standards.
She’s not in Heaven today because she was a patriotic American, or an outstanding advocate and supporter of the City of Clearwater, or because she prayed, was baptized, or celebrated the Lord’s Supper, or because she once hosted one of our ladies Bibles studies in her home. Sherri is not in Heaven today because she was a good neighbor, or because she loved her family, her children, and her friends.
Sherri is in the presence of the Lord today because of one reason and one reason only. Sherri is with Jesus – healed and at peace - because she trusted her life and eternity in Jesus Christ, which was given to her by the Grace of God.
When Sherri came to faith so many years ago she realized that she could not save herself or have her sins forgiven and her guilt washed away by living a good life – even a good religious life. Salvation, forgiveness, and assurance only came to her through her faith in Jesus Christ.
One of the most definitive verses in all the Scripture – taken from a portion that I read earlier from John 14, said it very plainly when Jesus said I am the Way, the Truth and the Life. No one comes to the Father except through Me. It is our faith in the Lord Jesus Christ that enables us to be called children of God.
Other than the 23rd Psalm the most famous Bible verse is John 3:16 and it sums up all the theology that you need: For God so loved the world that He gave His only Son, that whosoever believes in Him shall not perish but will have everlasting life.
So I know that Sherri would want me to ask all of you this simple question: Is all well between you and the Lord this day? Let’s examine our own hearts and do what is right so that we can enjoy the fruit of that relationship we can have with Him. Jesus said that He came to give us life and life more abundantly. Our salvation is not something we work for or earn – it is a gift from God. That’s what Grace is: God’s undeserved favor – His kindness in saving us – that’s Grace. We are saved or forgiven, and placed in a loving relationship with the Lord by His Grace – His free gift of life to us.
So, in our short time together this morning we have remembered and celebrated the wonderful life of Sherri Callahan, and have been comforted in knowing that our grief is normal, necessary and temporary.
I also know that all who are here this morning can be thankful that you not only knew Sherri, but that Sherri – in some small or large way – added love and joy to your life. In our sadness we can still find comfort and satisfaction in the fact that not only is Sherri now at her eternal rest and at peace, but that knowing her has enriched our lives.
I found out something yesterday that really touched me about Sherri’s influence. One of our dear friends and members here at Grace Christian Fellowship, who has found spiritual peace and a much deeper relationship with Jesus while attending Grace, is Angela Willsey; and Angela told me that it was Sherri who told her to come to Grace so many years ago. I had not been aware of that fact until this week.
Sherri has touched all of our lives, and her influence and love will continue to touch people in this sanctuary and around this community. I pray that you have found some comfort in the words that were spoken today, and most importantly, that you have been comforted by the presence of God’s Holy Spirit. We rejoice at Sherri’s heavenly homecoming although from our side of eternity it may for a while seem bittersweet.
And we ask the Lord to continue to manifest His peace to His children – a peace (as His Word tells us) that passes all understanding. Let’s close by singing Amazing Grace, and I’ll dismiss us in prayer….
Bob Childress Comments from Sherri's Funeral
Pray
This past Thursday a hole was ripped into the heart of our community and into all those who know Sherri. I say know and not knew because though while Sherri will not be with us in body, she is here with us inside each and every one of you. We are all bearing a little bit of Sherri because she lived a life that was poured out for and into others. Consistently giving of herself for the people and causes she believed in.
Matthew 22:34-40 The Greatest Commandment
36 Jesus was asked: “Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?”
37 Jesus replied: Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. 38 This is the first and greatest commandment. 39 And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself. 40 All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.”
Sherri did love God and by evidence of those attending here she loved people.
Some here are saying that you don’t believe in a God that you cannot see and I would submit to you cannot see the wind, but you can see the effects of the wind. In the same way you may not be able to see God with the natural eye, but you can see Him in the love the Sherri poured out. She is His gift to us.
She lived out loud – challenging us to be better, stronger, go further than we thought possible. We had a lot of laughs even when things were crazy and you felt more like crying. She had that way about her.
We cry today and perhaps in the days ahead as we remember Sherri, but do not cry for her as she is in a much better place. – She rests now in paradise
-Crow’s feet, clothes, and shoes - no more deadlines or praise God taxes.
Seeds in an orange
John 15:8 By this My Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit.
Sherri was a good seed who bear much fruit in her life, more than some bear in a lifetime
Lets honor her by following her selfless example and giving of ourselves and loving others even when it is sometimes difficult to do.
Moments like this cause us to question our own mortality and to some of you that scares you deeply. I ask the question, if this were your time, do you know for sure without any question where you will be for all eternity?
Jn 3:16 Doesn’t matter what you’ve done He is willing to accept you just the way you are and you too can live with Peace and spend eternity in heaven
This past Thursday a hole was ripped into the heart of our community and into all those who know Sherri. I say know and not knew because though while Sherri will not be with us in body, she is here with us inside each and every one of you. We are all bearing a little bit of Sherri because she lived a life that was poured out for and into others. Consistently giving of herself for the people and causes she believed in.
Matthew 22:34-40 The Greatest Commandment
36 Jesus was asked: “Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?”
37 Jesus replied: Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. 38 This is the first and greatest commandment. 39 And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself. 40 All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.”
Sherri did love God and by evidence of those attending here she loved people.
Some here are saying that you don’t believe in a God that you cannot see and I would submit to you cannot see the wind, but you can see the effects of the wind. In the same way you may not be able to see God with the natural eye, but you can see Him in the love the Sherri poured out. She is His gift to us.
She lived out loud – challenging us to be better, stronger, go further than we thought possible. We had a lot of laughs even when things were crazy and you felt more like crying. She had that way about her.
We cry today and perhaps in the days ahead as we remember Sherri, but do not cry for her as she is in a much better place. – She rests now in paradise
-Crow’s feet, clothes, and shoes - no more deadlines or praise God taxes.
Seeds in an orange
John 15:8 By this My Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit.
Sherri was a good seed who bear much fruit in her life, more than some bear in a lifetime
Lets honor her by following her selfless example and giving of ourselves and loving others even when it is sometimes difficult to do.
Moments like this cause us to question our own mortality and to some of you that scares you deeply. I ask the question, if this were your time, do you know for sure without any question where you will be for all eternity?
Jn 3:16 Doesn’t matter what you’ve done He is willing to accept you just the way you are and you too can live with Peace and spend eternity in heaven
Rich Pankow's Comments from Sherri's Funeral
My name is Rich Pankow and Sherri is my sister. Family and friends have shared special verses from Scripture that have brought us comfort that we wanted to share here today.
Revelation 21:4 – And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.
Proverbs 3:5-6 – Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him and he will make your paths straight.
Romans 8:38-39 – For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Jesus Christ our Lord.
Romans 8:28 – And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.
Isaiah 30:41 - Those who trust in the Lord will find their strength renewed. They will rise on wings like Eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and will not faint
John 14:27 – Peace I leave with you: my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.
Hebrews 12:1-2 – Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin, which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.
• I, like everyone here today, certainly cannot understand why God called Sherri at this point in her life.
• What I do know, is that He is sovereign and that as Romans 8:28 states…ALL things work together for good - good and bad
• God has no duty to reveal His perfect plan to us, but when he does it is a treat
• Most of you probably don’t know that Sherri was born premature and weighed less than 3lbs. She was in intensive care for a month fighting for her life. God chose not to call her home at that time and the reasons are now abundantly clear
• The two biggest reasons are right here in the front row. Sherri was spared as an infant so that she could be the giver of life to Bailey and Madison. So she could be a loving mother to them both.
• Bailey and Madison, your mother loves you more than you will ever know and that love will continue forever. When you miss your mom I want you to read the first two verses of Hebrews 12 that I just read. The passage talks about believers that are in heaven being part of a “cloud of witnesses” while we run the race of life here on earth. Your mother is now in heaven and she’s a part of that cloud of witnesses
she is cheering you on
she will always be cheering you on
she is cheering us all on
• Sherri was not only a wonderful mother; she was also a daughter, a sister, an aunt, a wife, a friend, a soul mate, a leader, a colleague and so much more. Sherri’s life not only touched the people in this sanctuary today, but countless others that have felt her love and her laughter over the past 46 years.
Our youngest sister Kathryn shared this special memory. Not long after Bailey was born she and Heather were trying to give him a bath and Sherri came in to find them holding on to him for dear life as he was slipping and sliding all over the place. They laughed for what felt like forever in that tiny bathroom over the fact that it took all three of them to control one wet baby boy.
Susan said she would never forget the LOVE Sherri showed for her son Rawlings. At a recent golf tournament, Sherri held him ALL day long and would not let anyone else hold him.
She also shared a favorite Christmas memory - Susan slept with Sherri in her bed and in the morning woke up to find Madison and Bailey in bed with them.
Heather shared that she cherished the silly memories–singing – silly faces – fighting like cats and dogs –doing line dances (“quoting here, Sherri was not the most coordinated soul”) – running the half marathon – Sherri left behind, but finishing with bloody heels.
Heather went on to say, she was adventurous and courageous, so incredibly genuine and loyal as a sister. She was so proud of me…ALWAYS, no matter the circumstances. She looked at me with such pride. We had this amazing non-judgmental love. No one will ever love me like Sherri did…That’s what I will miss the most!!!
My wife Jenny loved that Sherri always made her feel a part of things - made her feel welcome. There was nothing disingenuous about Sherri.
One memory I have of Sherri was when Jenny and I went to visit her Mark and Bailey a few weeks after Madison was born. Sherri was cutting Bailey’s nails with her teeth because she was concerned that she may cut him with the clippers. Over the past few years I have given my share of similar manicures to my two boys, now understanding the love and tenderness she showed to Bailey.
I want to say on behalf of the family, how touched we are by the love that has been showered on us by so many friends of Sherri. We have taken great comfort hearing stories about why you loved her and how Sherri impacted your lives. Thank you very very much.
Revelation 21:4 – And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.
Proverbs 3:5-6 – Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him and he will make your paths straight.
Romans 8:38-39 – For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Jesus Christ our Lord.
Romans 8:28 – And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.
Isaiah 30:41 - Those who trust in the Lord will find their strength renewed. They will rise on wings like Eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and will not faint
John 14:27 – Peace I leave with you: my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.
Hebrews 12:1-2 – Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin, which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.
• I, like everyone here today, certainly cannot understand why God called Sherri at this point in her life.
• What I do know, is that He is sovereign and that as Romans 8:28 states…ALL things work together for good - good and bad
• God has no duty to reveal His perfect plan to us, but when he does it is a treat
• Most of you probably don’t know that Sherri was born premature and weighed less than 3lbs. She was in intensive care for a month fighting for her life. God chose not to call her home at that time and the reasons are now abundantly clear
• The two biggest reasons are right here in the front row. Sherri was spared as an infant so that she could be the giver of life to Bailey and Madison. So she could be a loving mother to them both.
• Bailey and Madison, your mother loves you more than you will ever know and that love will continue forever. When you miss your mom I want you to read the first two verses of Hebrews 12 that I just read. The passage talks about believers that are in heaven being part of a “cloud of witnesses” while we run the race of life here on earth. Your mother is now in heaven and she’s a part of that cloud of witnesses
she is cheering you on
she will always be cheering you on
she is cheering us all on
• Sherri was not only a wonderful mother; she was also a daughter, a sister, an aunt, a wife, a friend, a soul mate, a leader, a colleague and so much more. Sherri’s life not only touched the people in this sanctuary today, but countless others that have felt her love and her laughter over the past 46 years.
Our youngest sister Kathryn shared this special memory. Not long after Bailey was born she and Heather were trying to give him a bath and Sherri came in to find them holding on to him for dear life as he was slipping and sliding all over the place. They laughed for what felt like forever in that tiny bathroom over the fact that it took all three of them to control one wet baby boy.
Susan said she would never forget the LOVE Sherri showed for her son Rawlings. At a recent golf tournament, Sherri held him ALL day long and would not let anyone else hold him.
She also shared a favorite Christmas memory - Susan slept with Sherri in her bed and in the morning woke up to find Madison and Bailey in bed with them.
Heather shared that she cherished the silly memories–singing – silly faces – fighting like cats and dogs –doing line dances (“quoting here, Sherri was not the most coordinated soul”) – running the half marathon – Sherri left behind, but finishing with bloody heels.
Heather went on to say, she was adventurous and courageous, so incredibly genuine and loyal as a sister. She was so proud of me…ALWAYS, no matter the circumstances. She looked at me with such pride. We had this amazing non-judgmental love. No one will ever love me like Sherri did…That’s what I will miss the most!!!
My wife Jenny loved that Sherri always made her feel a part of things - made her feel welcome. There was nothing disingenuous about Sherri.
One memory I have of Sherri was when Jenny and I went to visit her Mark and Bailey a few weeks after Madison was born. Sherri was cutting Bailey’s nails with her teeth because she was concerned that she may cut him with the clippers. Over the past few years I have given my share of similar manicures to my two boys, now understanding the love and tenderness she showed to Bailey.
I want to say on behalf of the family, how touched we are by the love that has been showered on us by so many friends of Sherri. We have taken great comfort hearing stories about why you loved her and how Sherri impacted your lives. Thank you very very much.
Saturday, June 4, 2011
A Sunset Celebration for Sherri
A Sunset Celebration
We came together to "Get it Done and have fun!”......and now we once again gather to CELEBRATE and come home to Coachman Park to remember our friend Sherri Callahan. Put on your favorite Clearwater Jazz Holiday shirt and join us as we will gather this Sunday, June 5th, starting at 6:00pm in Coachman Park in front of the stage to remember her smile, laugh, drive and to share stories. It is a time to be with and lean on our friends and family. Bring a chair, a blanket, some food, beverages (no alcohol please)......listen to music and remember. Everyone is welcome and please share with others you know who loved Sherri.
Friday, June 3, 2011
Sherri's Obituary
Sherri Pankow Callahan, 45, of Clearwater, Florida, passed away June 2, 2011. She was preceded in death by her mother, Carole Jones Pankow. Sherri is survived by two children, Bailey and Madison Callahan, their father, Mark Callahan; father Gerry (Pat) Pankow; three siblings, sister Heather (Jerry) Williams; brother Rich (Jenny) Pankow; sister Susan (John) Moss; sister Kathryn Pankow; boyfriend, Don Cayo and many loving friends. Sherri was currently serving as Vice President of Community Relations for the Clearwater Chamber of Commerce and Jazz Force President Emeritus for the Clearwater Jazz Holiday. Her memorial service will be held Saturday, June 4, 2011 at 10 am at Grace Christian Fellowship. In lieu of flowers a trust will be set up for the children.
Celebration Following Funeral
Immediately following the funeral there will be a lite reception at the church.
After that Frank Chivas, the owner of Island Way Grill, and a friend of Sherri's, has graciously offered to let us all gather to have a celebration in Sherri's honor. Island Way Grill is located on 20 Island Way Clearwater, FL 33767.
The Sherri Callahan Memorial Trust
The family has set up the Sherri Callahan Memorial Trust for her children. In lieu of flowers we are asking for donations. Please send them to:
USAmeriBank
Attention: Jeanette Renfrow
1617 Gulf to Bay Blvd
Clearwater, FL 33755
CHECKS SHOULD BE MADE OUT TO: Sherri Callahan Memorial Trust
Thursday, June 2, 2011
Tribute to Sherri
Sherri was the Vice President of Community Relations for the Clearwater Chamber of Commerce. She had been working on the 2011 Artistic Tastings which was an event that she started in 2010. The event is tomorrow evening and they are honoring her at 7:30pm. The event is being held at the Clearwater Beach Hyatt Regency. Tickets can be purchased at the door or at www.clearwaterflorida.org
Funeral Arrangements
Sherri's funeral will be on Saturday, June 4, 2011 at 10:00 am at Grace Christian Fellowship.
The church's address is 901 Ridge Road SW Largo, FL 33770
If you are interested in bringing light snacks or refreshments please email Becky at the church. Her email address is Becky@gracechristian.com
Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.
John 14:27 (NIV)
The church's address is 901 Ridge Road SW Largo, FL 33770
If you are interested in bringing light snacks or refreshments please email Becky at the church. Her email address is Becky@gracechristian.com
Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.
John 14:27 (NIV)
Sherri Pankow Callahan
Went to be with the Lord this morning at 2:15am. Thank you for all your prayers. They meant the world to all of us. She was loved by many and will be deeply missed.
Please leave us comments with some of your memories of Sherri. We will pass them all on to Bailey and Madison.
We will post funeral arrangements later.
Please leave us comments with some of your memories of Sherri. We will pass them all on to Bailey and Madison.
We will post funeral arrangements later.
Wednesday, June 1, 2011
We are humbly touched
A friend of our brother's has been praying for Sherri in his bible study, like many of you. We were moved beyond words, when this friends bible study decided to fast tomorrow and pray for Sherri. It's amazing to us how many people are praying for Sherri and how far the outreach has extended. The support and love means so much. We will be anxious to share this with Sherri in the morning.
(Rich, Sherri's brother, and Dad say their in. The sisters are still undecided.......we love food!!!!!)
Please leave a comment with your favorite bible verses or inspirational quotes. They help keep us all inspired, and what a great way to spread God's word.
(Rich, Sherri's brother, and Dad say their in. The sisters are still undecided.......we love food!!!!!)
Please leave a comment with your favorite bible verses or inspirational quotes. They help keep us all inspired, and what a great way to spread God's word.
Good Day......Not Perfect Day
Just as we were all saying our good nights to Sherri we noticed that she was looking a little "puffy". Unfortunately, she developed a puncture in her lung. We knew that was a risk with having the bi-ventilator. She is stable right now which is important. They are having to re-administer the paralytic drug in order to keep her comfortable.
Please pray that the puncture is small and that it heals very quickly. So far, the air has not leaked into her chest cavity. This is important so pray specifically for this. They will be doing continuous X-Rays tonight so we will update the blog first thing in the morning.
Proverbs 3:5-6 "Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take"
Please pray that the puncture is small and that it heals very quickly. So far, the air has not leaked into her chest cavity. This is important so pray specifically for this. They will be doing continuous X-Rays tonight so we will update the blog first thing in the morning.
Proverbs 3:5-6 "Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take"
Baby Steps
God is answering our prayers. We needed to hear some good news and we did! The X-Rays look a little better today. Her fever is gone and she is handling the new blood pressure medicine well. They inserted a side ventilator yesterday and she is doing great with it. The best part is she looks better. These are small improvements, but they are just what we needed to keep the motivation and positive energy high!!
We can feel it. She is fighting HARD!
They are slowly lowering the medicine that has her in the coma, while still keeping her heavily sedated so that she is comfortable. Because of this, Sherri has responded to voices several times by slightly opening her eyes.
Everything they are doing now is a balancing act and there is cause and effect for each drug they have her on. They seem to have her settled right now.
We have been so fortunate to have such great nurses at Morton Plant Hospital. We are so thankful for them.
Thank you for all the prayers. They are keeping visitors to a minimum as she is still in ICU. We will continue to do updates on this blog.
Please pray that Sherri continues to tolerate the side ventilator and it continues to get oxygen to her lungs which enables the antibiotics to fight the infection.
Today's verse: Jeremiah 29:11 "For I know the plans I have for you," says the Lord. "They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope."
We can feel it. She is fighting HARD!
They are slowly lowering the medicine that has her in the coma, while still keeping her heavily sedated so that she is comfortable. Because of this, Sherri has responded to voices several times by slightly opening her eyes.
Everything they are doing now is a balancing act and there is cause and effect for each drug they have her on. They seem to have her settled right now.
We have been so fortunate to have such great nurses at Morton Plant Hospital. We are so thankful for them.
Thank you for all the prayers. They are keeping visitors to a minimum as she is still in ICU. We will continue to do updates on this blog.
Please pray that Sherri continues to tolerate the side ventilator and it continues to get oxygen to her lungs which enables the antibiotics to fight the infection.
Today's verse: Jeremiah 29:11 "For I know the plans I have for you," says the Lord. "They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope."
How She Got Here
I am going to do my best to summarize how Sherri got to the ICU at Morton Plant Hospital on Sunday, May 22nd.
Sherri has Rheumatoid Arthritis and was on a particular medicine for this condition. This drug weakens your immune system which can make you susceptible to other infections which is what happened to Sherri, or so we think. Sherri's original diagnosis was PCP (pneumonia) which led to this new condition called ARDS (Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome). They have her on several antibiotics to fight the infection. She is heavily sedated in order to keep her comfortable while on a ventilator. Sherri is in critical but stable condition. She is young and a fighter!!
Please pray for Sherri as well as Bailey and Madison.
Sherri has Rheumatoid Arthritis and was on a particular medicine for this condition. This drug weakens your immune system which can make you susceptible to other infections which is what happened to Sherri, or so we think. Sherri's original diagnosis was PCP (pneumonia) which led to this new condition called ARDS (Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome). They have her on several antibiotics to fight the infection. She is heavily sedated in order to keep her comfortable while on a ventilator. Sherri is in critical but stable condition. She is young and a fighter!!
Please pray for Sherri as well as Bailey and Madison.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)