Sherry Carlisle Reavis McHugh, 71, died unexpectedly on June 5, 2024. She was born in Atlanta, on August 18, 1952, to Jewel Carlisle Reavis and Robert Logan Reavis.
Sherry was active in her youth group at Lutheran Church of the Redeemer, and she was President of the Y-Teen Club at Dykes High School ’70. She attended Winthrop College and earned a degree in Recreation from Georgia Southern College ‘74.
She enjoyed a near 40-year career of leadership roles in Smyrna and Peachtree City Parks & Recreation Departments. As a member of the Georgia Recreation & Parks Association (GRPA) since 1973, Sherry served on multiple committees and through her Districts. She was a mentor to many, and her outgoing personality inspired collaboration across local government to achieve lasting community impact.
Sherry was married to Emory Lorenzo McHugh for 21 years until his early passing in 2017. Their Fayetteville, GA, home was filled with University of Georgia memorabilia and “Life is Good” decor. Indeed, it was. They enjoyed UGA football, golf, concerts, travel, game nights, and time with their friends, family and dogs at Lake Oconee and Ellijay. They also braved whitewater rafting and went skydiving for Sherry’s 60th birthday.
Sherry cherished staying connected with long-time friend groups — Nursery School Gang, Burgiss Glen Campers, Luther League, GA Southern Roomies, Game Night Gals, Lunch Buddies, and more. She also loved Christmas with her Carlisle cousins in Greenville, SC, comforted by traditions, including Christmas Eve service at Trinity Lutheran, family meals, playing “Santa,” and treating everyone to a Christmas afternoon movie.
Sherry is survived by: Carlisle cousins Eliza Stockman, Jane Stockman, Jimmy Stockman, Tom Stockman (Shannon), William Thorpe (Patty); Janet Huskey (Tom), David Huskey (Angie Hart), and Robin Huskey (Beth Herndon); and extended Carlisle and McHugh family.
We are grateful to the staff at Holbrook of Decatur for their patient, personalized, and loving care for Sherry as she lived with rapid onset dementia for two years. Sherry remained an energetic community leader engaging everyday with the Holbrook staff, residents, and all who walked through the doors. She never lost her sense of humor, her drive for “directing,” or her eagerness to connect with others.
Cousins Robin and Beth also wish to thank friends and family for staying connected with Sherry through cards, calls, or visits. Special thanks to: Merilee, Vicki, Gaines, and Bruce, for being on the journey; Hilda and Doug for adopting Sherry’s dogs; Pat and Glenn for frequent cookie visits; and Amy and the Congregational Care Ministry of Redeemer Lutheran for “bringing church” and friendship to Sherry. Gratitude to all who touched our lives through prayers, supportive words, listening ears, humor, help, music, hugs, and friendship.
A Memorial Service and reception will be held Thursday, August 22, 2:00 PM, at Lutheran Church of the Redeemer, 731 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta, GA 30308. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to this church or an animal rescue of your choice.
