Sharon Louise “Sherry” Bowling joyfully entered the presence of her Savior on January 22, 2026, at OhioHealth in Mansfield, Ohio. In that moment, her body was restored, her spirit made whole, and she stepped into the joy she had long believed was waiting for her.
Born August 26, 1958, in Oak Hill, WV, Sherry was the daughter of the late Carl Elmer and Velma Bowling. She was a 1976 graduate of Collins High School. In 1990 she moved to Ashland, Ohio to begin a journey as a non-traditional student at Ashland University. Moving into the dorm at 32 years old, she was immediately a campus celebrity. She earned an associate’s degree in religion in 1992 then enrolled at Ashland Theological Seminary where she earned a Master of Divinity degree in 1995 – an accomplishment that brought her much pride and joy.
Sherry went on to serve as the Director of Academic Advising and later the Associate Registrar at Ashland University, where her warmth and kindness made her a beloved presence to students for decades. She had a remarkable way of making every student feel like they mattered. She offered much more than advice on scheduling and degree requirements – she handed out life lessons and love every day. There are many students who credit her with helping them find their path in life, get through a hard time, or most importantly, find the Lord. Later in life, she brought this same enthusiasm and big-hearted spirit to her work with the Ashland County Fair.
Sherry’s life was a living testimony to the love of Jesus. She didn’t just talk about her faith — she radiated it. She welcomed everyone with open arms, and her legendary hugs were famous for making even the hardest days feel lighter. She had a gift for turning strangers into friends and friends into family, and she carried joy with her like a banner. Her laughter filled rooms, her presence brought people together, and her faith pointed countless hearts toward Christ.
Independent, fearless, and a trailblazer in her own right, Sherry lived boldly and loved generously. She embraced life with courage and conviction, always trusting God’s goodness. A verse she cherished — that she fought the good fight, finished the race, and kept the faith (2 Timothy 4:7) — is not just a Scripture she loved, but a truth she lived. Her legacy is one of grace, celebration, and unwavering hope.
Sherry is survived by her siblings Dr. C. Gregory Bowling and wife Susan of New Orleans, Louisiana; Debbie Bowling of Oak Hill; and David Bowling and wife Jennifer of Oak Hill. She is also survived by her beloved nieces and nephews — Michael Bowling, Jonathan Bowling, Stephen Bowling, Joshua Bowling, Samantha Daigle, Susie Freeman, and Bailey Bowling — along with many cousins, extended family members, and countless friends who became family through her boundless love.
A celebration of life will be held for Sherry on February 28 at Five Stones Community Church / Garber Campus (163 Sherman Avenue Ashland, Ohio). Visitation with family and friends will be held from 10-11 a.m. with a service celebrating her faith and life from 11 a.m. – Noon. A light meal will be shared afterward.
An additional memorial service will be held for family and friends in Oak Hill, West Virginia at a date yet to be determined.
In lieu of flowers, we welcome you to keep Sherry’s legacy alive through a memorial contribution to the Ashland County Fair. Donations can be mailed to Ashland County Fair: 2042 Claremont Ave. Ashland, OH 44805, with “Sherry Bowling Memorial Fund” in the note.
Denbow-Gasche Funeral Home & Crematory has been entrusted to handle the arrangements.
Funeral Home: Denbow-Gasche Funeral Home
Website: denbowfh.com