It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our mother, Sherry Lynn Siniard, 73, of Minor Hill, Tennessee, who passed away peacefully on the morning of October 30, 2025, in her home. Sherry was born on November 18, 1951, in Bloomington, Indiana and her life was one marked by both resilience and love in all its imperfect forms.
Sherry met and married the love of her life, James (“Jimmy”) Siniard, on July 16, 1998, in Bloomington, Indiana. The two later made their home in Minor Hill, Tennessee, where they shared a passion for flowers, gardening and cooking. Sherry especially loved spending time with their cherished fur babies — Gracie, Baby Girl, Cocoa, and Snoopy.
Sherry became a young mother at sixteen and faced challenges that few her age could imagine. Despite the obstacles and turmoil, she did her best with what she had and taught her daughters lessons about strength, survival, giving up, starting over and the ever-complicated ways that love can show up.
Sherry had quick wit, a stubborn will, and a heart that was both guarded and giving. She loved deeply and in her own way, she never stopped trying to be better than what life had given her.
She is survived by her husband, James (Jimmy) Siniard; one brother, Tim Deckard of Indianapolis, Indiana; two daughters, Lisa L. Payton (Bruce) of Gosport, Indiana, and Megan Forrest of Minor Hill, Tennessee; four beautiful and loving grandchildren that she adored, Jacob Murphy (Abby) of Evansville, Indiana, Samiya, Sophie, and Mason Stratman of Jasper, Indiana; one great-grandson, Winston; and nieces Anna Bryant, Kristin Lauer, Alexis Carmichael, and nephew Steven Deckard.
Sherry was preceded in death by her parents, Jerry Deckard of Unionville, Indiana, and Carolyn Nondus Goodman Behen of Bloomington, Indiana; her sister, Bridgette Frye Carmichael of Bloomington, Indiana; a bonus daughter, Misty Able; her maternal grandparents, Pete and Zade Goodman and paternal grandparents, Harley and Gayle Deckard. She now joins them all in heaven, embraced by God’s eternal love, forgiveness and grace.
In accordance with Sherry’s wishes, no viewing or public services will be held. The family deeply appreciates your love, prayers, and support during this difficult time.
In honor of Sherry’s memory, donations may be made to the Giles County Humane Association, reflecting her lifelong love of animals.
Bennett-May & Pierce Funeral Home and Crematory is in charge of the arrangements for Sherry Lynn Siniard.
