Sherry L. Lunger

Sherry L. Lunger, a beacon of kindness and love, passed away peacefully on September 14, 2025, at the age of 81 in Elizabeth City, North Carolina. Born on July 11, 1944, in Bradford, Pennsylvania, Sherry's life was a testament to the power of nurturing and caring for others.

Sherry's journey began as a bright-eyed graduate of Tioga Central High School in 1962, where she first found her calling to help others. She went on to attend the Robert Packer School of Nursing, graduating with her nursing degree in 1965. For the next fourteen years, Sherry dedicated herself to the patients at Robert Packer Hospital, earning the respect and admiration of both colleagues and those she cared for with her compassionate nature.

In 1966, Sherry's heart found its match when she married the love of her life, Winston "Pete" Lunger. Together, they built a family grounded in love, welcoming their children and embracing every moment of joy and challenge along the way. Sherry was the cherished mother of Lisa and her husband Joseph Wallace, Gerald and his wife Dianna Lunger, and she held a special place in the hearts of her eleven grandchildren and thirteen great-grandchildren. Her legacy of love also lives on through her numerous nieces, nephews, and their families. Sherry was predeceased by her beloved husband, Pete, her parents Albert “Tootie” and Georgianna (Cole) Chaffee; her sons Donald, David, Peter, and Daniel Lunger, her sister and brother-in-law Joanne and Ronald T. “Bud” Cook, and her treasured grandson, Joshua Lunger.

In 1989, Sherry and Pete sought new horizons in Bradenton, Florida, where Sherry continued her nursing career at Manatee Glens Hospital. Her dedication to her profession was unwavering, and her passion for helping others never dimmed. Sherry's life was characterized by her loving, thoughtful, and kind nature, which touched the lives of everyone she encountered.

Sherry's interests extended beyond her professional life. She found joy in the simple pleasures of life, like spending time at the beach and cherishing moments with her family. Sherry and Pete were also active members of the Nichols Fire Department and Emergency Squad, where they served their community with pride and commitment.

As we bid farewell to our loving mother, grandmother and friend, we celebrate a life beautifully lived and a heart that was given freely to all. Her memory will continue to inspire those who knew her and her spirit will forever be a guiding light for her family. Sherry's life story is a reminder that the greatest gift we can offer the world is a heart full of love and hands ready to serve.

Family and friends are invited to attend a period of visitation on Friday evening, October 3rd from 5 –7 pm at the Nichols Fire Station. Sherry will be honored by the Nurses Honor Guard at 5pm. She will be laid to rest next to her husband in the Nichols Cemetery. Memories and condolences may be shared by visiting her guest book at www.sutfinfuneralchapel.com Those who wish may kindly consider a memorial contribution to the Nichols Fire & Emergency Dept. PO Box 336, Nichols, NY 13812 in loving memory of Sherry L. Lunger.