David Russell Sherman, Sr., 86, passed away peacefully and was welcomed into his eternal home and the loving arms of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ on Nov. 29, 2024. David was born to Ruth (Henderson) Sherman on September 23, 1938 in Marion, Indiana. David grew into a man whose life was marked by faith and an enduring love for his family. On March 25, 1963, he married Loretta Fleming and shared 46 years of marriage until her passing on July 7, 2006. They have now been reunited in Glory.
As a young man, he set aside his high school education to serve his country, dedicating four honorable years to the U.S. Army (1956-1960). He later obtained his GED from Marion High School. Continuing to grow in his faith and learn more about Christ and His teachings, David earned an Associate Degree in Biblical Studies from Liberty Baptist University (Lynchburg, VA) as one of the first graduates of its Home Study program, 1978. He was a faithful member and deacon at Immanuel Baptist Church in Marion, IN. After 46 years of hard work and loyalty, David retired in 2006 as a Machine Repairman at the Marion General Motors Plant.
David’s love for the outdoors was a defining part of his life. Whether hunting, fishing, or camping at Pike Lake-a cherished tradition since the early 1960s-he found peace and joy in nature’s beauty. A passionate sports enthusiast, David delighted in competition and was a devoted lifelong fan of the Cubs, Reds, and L.A. Dodgers. But above all, David’s heart belonged to the Lord and his family. He treasured their annual vacations filled with laughter, adventure, and found profound happiness in spending time with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Few things brought him greater joy than creating memories with those he loved.
He is survived by his children Brenda Wolf (Kent Raby), Jamestown, Joanna (Jason) Hendricks, Marion, David R. “Rusty” (Jonell) Sherman, Jr., Marion, Douglas (Tina) Sherman, Greenfield, Rose (Lupe) Cadena, Van Buren, and Angela (Rodney) Brown, Montpelier; brothers, Orville Sherman and Robert Sherman, Marion; and longtime companion, Loretta Dollar of Muncie. He is also survived by 16 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren.
David was preceded in death by his faithful wife, Loretta M. Sherman; his parents; sisters, Virginia Mae Sherman, Mary Doris Sherman, Betty Lou Sherman, Irene Mayo, Janet Blackburn, and Ruth Ann Detamore-Reynolds; brother, Richard Sherman; precious granddaughter, Kristen Janero, and great-grandson, Xander Janero and his unborn sibling.
David’s legacy is one of unwavering faith, enduring love, and joyful devotion to those he held most dear. His life reminds us of the profound impact of a heart filled with kindness, gratitude, and steadfast dedication to God and family. He will be deeply missed but forever remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
The family will receive visitors from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm on Saturday, December 7, 2024 at Needham-Storey-Wampner Funeral & Cremation Service, Storey Chapel, 400 E. Main St., Gas City, IN.
Immediately following the time of visitation, a service to celebrate David’s life will begin at 1:00 pm with Pastor Ray Kughen officiating. Burial will take place at Grant Memorial Park.
Memories may be shared online at www.nswcares.com.
