Sherry Kay Ream Obituary, Cause of Death: In Loving Memory

Sherry Kay (Lehn) Ream of Urbana, Ohio, passed away peacefully on Thursday, September 17, 2026, surrounded by the family she loved so deeply. She was 84.

For Sherry, family, faith, education and service were not simply parts of her life—they were the values that guided it. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister and friend who had a gift for making others feel cared for, appreciated and loved.

Her life was rooted in Urbana, where her family eventually settled during her childhood and where she would build the relationships and memories that remained central to her throughout her years.

From an Educator’s Family to Her Own Life of Service

Sherry was born on July 30, 1942, in Barberton, Ohio, to the late Franklin V. and Ruth B. Lehn. Her father worked as a principal and superintendent, while her mother was an elementary school teacher. Because of her father’s career, the family lived in several Midwestern communities before eventually establishing roots in Urbana when he became superintendent of the combined Champaign County Schools.

Sherry inherited her parents’ deep connection to education and carried that influence into her own work.

Her career included time at Lawnview School, where she worked with developmentally challenged children and adults. She became involved in Special Olympics activities and Lawnview Men’s Basketball League games, opportunities that allowed her to form lasting connections with the people she served.

She later joined Urbana City Schools as a paraeducator and went on to assist hearing-impaired students at the elementary and junior high levels. Sherry took pride in learning and using American Sign Language, helping her communicate with and develop meaningful relationships with her students.

Her work with children also included serving as a teacher and associate at the Center for Creative Child Care and participating in Urbana’s after-school program.

A 64-Year Marriage Built on Love

One of the defining chapters of Sherry’s life began in 1961, when she met Ronald E. Ream at the wedding of mutual friends. Their courtship was brief, but it marked the beginning of a marriage that would last 64 years.

Ron affectionately called her “Rabbits,” a nickname that remained part of their relationship throughout their life together.

Sherry and Ron shared a lasting bond and were often seen walking hand in hand. Together, they raised their two daughters, Lori and Robin, who became the center of their family life.

Their marriage was marked by companionship, devotion and the shared experience of building a family together.

Her Greatest Joy Came From Family and Children

After retiring, Sherry embraced another role that brought her immense happiness: grandmother.

She treasured her time with her grandsons, Greg and Jacob, and delighted in watching them grow and enjoy activities including Hot Wheels, golf and basketball.

Retirement, however, did not end Sherry’s connection to education. She continued volunteering at Urbana City Schools for many years and eventually persuaded Ron to join her in that work.

Among the relationships she particularly valued was her friendship with Kay Trout, with whom she enjoyed volunteering in her classroom.

For Sherry, serving children was never simply a job. It was an expression of the compassion and generosity that defined so much of her life.

A Survivor Who Gave Back

Sherry was also a 28-year breast cancer survivor, an experience that inspired another important chapter of service.

She devoted years to the American Cancer Society, serving on the Relay for Life committee and focusing particularly on activities supporting cancer survivors.

Her family remembered her legacy not primarily through titles or positions, but through the people she loved and encouraged. The children she taught, the students she supported, the friends she made and, above all, the family she cherished became lasting evidence of the difference she made.

Family She Leaves Behind

Sherry is survived by her husband of 64 years, Ronald; daughters Lori Ream and Robin (Gary) Coffey; grandsons Greg (Miranda) Coffey and Jacob Coffey; cousin Ruth Ann Kozlevcar; sisters-in-law Cindy Funk and Debbie Lehn; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Franklin and Ruth Lehn; her brother, Les Lehn; brother-in-law Jim Funk; and special friend Kay Charles.

Cause of Death and Final Days

Sherry passed away peacefully on September 17, surrounded by her family. The obituary does not identify a specific cause of death.

Although it notes that Sherry was a 28-year breast cancer survivor, the available obituary does not state that breast cancer was the cause of her passing.

Funeral and Memorial Service

Family and friends will have an opportunity to gather in Sherry’s memory from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Tuesday, September 22, at Vernon Funeral Home in Urbana, Ohio.

A memorial service is scheduled for 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, September 23, at the funeral home, with Pastor Christopher Dinnell officiating.

The color pink held a special meaning for Sherry, symbolizing love, joy and beauty. In her memory, family and friends are invited to wear something pink or incorporate a touch of pink into their attire for her funeral.

Sherry Kay Ream leaves behind a legacy shaped by love, faith, education and service. From the classrooms where she encouraged children to the family gatherings where she treasured her husband, daughters and grandchildren, she devoted herself to helping others feel valued.

Her kindness will live on through the people she taught, the causes she supported, the family she raised and the many relationships she nurtured throughout her life.

May Sherry Kay Ream be remembered for the love she gave so freely, the children she encouraged, and the family she held so close to her heart.