WLKM Radio 95.9 FM
Sherran Gray passed away on Thursday, May 8, 2025 at the age of 79. She was born on July 20, 1945 in Battle Cree to Barbara Langley. Her mother and her brother, Daniel Whitman, preceded her in death.
She moved to Colon during her high school years and made it her home ever since. She loved Colon and volunteered many hours to local projects, especially sharing her love of decorating.
Sharran graduated from Colon High School in 1964 and soon after married James Ryan. Her marriage brought her into the large Decker family clan, giving her the sense of family she had longed for her entire life. Until his passing, she remained good friends with Jim, and her relationships with his family still flourished, which she treasured.
Sherran loved animals, parades, nature, sewing, staying up late to play cards, anything red checked gingham, 50s and 60s music, grape Smirnoffs, baking pies (her crusts were the best!), wild raspberry picking, going up north, sitting on the beach of Lake Michigan, and she dearly loved her friends.
But, being a mom and grandma was the highlight of Sherran’s life and brought her the most joy. She will be missed by her children, Steve (Lori) Ryan, Shannon (Michael) Vander Molen, and her Chilean son, Jorge (Magdelena) Munoz. She was the ultimate grandma to Hanna and Kira Ryan and Lily and Tommy Vander Molen. She was a proud great-grandma to Isla Jean Ryan.
She leaves behind her children, grandchildren, and many friends, but we can only imagine what a party is happening in Heaven as she reunites with loved ones who have gone before her.
Sherran was a giving person who took care of others. Her last worldly act was to participate in the Gift of Life.
For those wishing to say their goodbyes, we will be gathering at Schipper Funeral Home on Tuesday, May 13 with a visitation starting at 12:00 PM followed by a service at 1:00. However, in keeping with Sherran’s wishes, the true celebration of her life will take place on July 20th, her 80th birthday. Please join us on July 20 at the Colon American Legion Post #454 at 1:00 to celebrate her life. Feel free to wear her favorite color, red, and bring a story or memory to share.
