February 24, 1945 – October 21, 2025

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Diane Cheryl Hanna, affectionately known as Sherry.

She left this world peacefully on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family, at the tender age of 80.

Born on February 24, 1945, in Salmon Arm, British Columbia, to Margaret and Dexter Morrison, Sherry’s life was a tapestry woven with laughter, patience, and boundless love.

As the eldest of three children — Diane, Gary, and Christine – she learned early the meaning of care and responsibility. Even then, her gentle heart and bright spirit shone through.

Her mother once shared a memory of young Sherry making porridge so thick, where a spoon could stand on its own – a moment that captured her determination, humor, and sweetness, qualities that would define her life.

Sherry grew up in St. James, where she attended school before entering the workforce. Over the years, she worked at Nutty Club, Old Dutch, and the Legion, giving her time, her care, and her kindness to others. Wherever she went, her laughter filled the air and her heart touched everyone around her.

She had a sweet tooth for life — and for sweets themselves. Werther’s Originals were her favorite treat, and she always had a few tucked in her pocket, ready to share. With a smile she’d say, “It’s okay, you can have another,” as she is tying the golden wrappers into tiny knots like keepsakes of her joy.

Sherry loved the outdoors. She found peace in the mountains, happiness by the campfire, and wonder by the ocean – though she preferred to watch the waves from the shore. Music was another of her passions. From dancing to the songs of the 1950s and 60s to listening to Elvis Presley and Keith Urban, she loved the way music made her feel – alive, connected, and free.

Sherry’s proudest role was that of a mother. She raised her two children, Devin and Cheryl, with unwavering love, patience, and grace. Her heart was boundless – she and Dad opened their home to countless foster children, offering them the same warmth and compassion she gave to all.

Her greatest joy was her family — her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren – each one the light of her world. She celebrated every milestone, attended every concert, every game, every birthday, every recital and every graduation. She was the loudest cheerleader in the stands, her jug of pennies clinking as she beamed with pride and joy shining in her eyes.

Mom’s kitchen was her sanctuary, a place of comfort and care. An avid cook, she cooked slowly, lovingly, and with care – each meal seasoned with patience and with her British grace. Whether a simple meatloaf or a full Sunday dinner, her food fed both body and soul. She taught us to take our time, to find beauty in the process and to pour love into everything we do.

Though her journey grew difficult after being diagnosed with COPD, Mom faced each day with courage and dignity. When she could no longer live on her own, she moved in with Cheryl, Jody, and Mike, who surrounded her with love, laughter and care. Her days were filled with family visits Jets hockey games, movie nights, and her favorite daily shows.  Jody, mom loved you so very much and enjoyed spending time with you and missed those days.

A Special note from Devin to my sister:

“Cheryl you made sure that every day was a gift for Mom – It was filled with love, warmth and joy, for which our family will forever be grateful. Cheryl thank you for your dedication and exceptional care for Mom. You were an amazing daughter!”

In her final days, Mom’s body grew tired, but her spirit remained radiant. She waited until we found the strength to let her go – and when she did, she slipped away peacefully, surrounded by love, to rejoin those who had gone before her.

Sherry was predeceased by her parents Margaret and Dexter Morrison; her in-laws Helen & Lloyd Hanna, Elizabeth, and Willie Johnson; and her sister and brother in-laws Lynn and George Lott, Clifford Hanna, Diane Fedorachuk, Denise Hunter, Jimmy Johnson, and Louise Johnson.

She leaves behind a beautiful legacy:

Her loving children Devin Johnson and Cheryl McGuinness; her 9 cherished grandchildren River (Chelsea), Cory, Forrest (Shanine), Austin, Hunter, Nikita, Chris, Chad, and Mike; and her 17 adored great-grandchildren — Donavon, Michael, Cory Jr., Brooklyn, Ellie, Kali, Elena, Lyric, Dominic, Esme, Elle, Garrett, Savannah, Kayden, Olivia, Dominic, and Jerrich.

She is also survived by her siblings Gary and Christine, along with their families, and many other family members, including her beautiful nieces and handsome nephews who she loved dearly and were blessed by her love.

Sherry’s heart was her greatest gift —open, kind, and endlessly giving.

She loved deeply and without hesitation, welcoming others as family and finding joy in every connection she made.

Her laughter could fill a room, her compassion could ease a burden, and her love could make anyone feel at home.

These tributes reflect the many lives she touched and the lasting imprint she left on all who knew her.

To Debbie;

No matter what life brings, you’ve always been – and will always be -one of Mom’s cherished children, deeply loved and valued. Thank you for supporting us all.

To Amanda;

Though you entered Mom’s life as a granddaughter-in-law, she saw you only as her granddaughter – loved deeply, cherished always, and forever a part of her heart and her life.

To Dean and Tracy;

Mom’s (GiGi’s) adopted children – you brought warmth and light into her days.

Your love, your care, and your presence meant more to her than words could say. She treasured you both, and we thank you from the heart.

To Heather, Missy, and Jessie

Mom’s dear friend and her adopted grandchildren – thank you for being part of her life, for the laughter, the kindness, and the care you shared.

You brought Mom’s much joy, and she carried that joy in her heart always.

To Our Dad, George

Mom held a special place in her heart for you.

In these last few years, as your friendship rekindled, she found comfort in your kindness and your care.

Your love, concern, and compassion for her were felt by all who saw you  – the gentle kisses on her cheek, the soft words of love, and that sweet promise to save her a dance.

In Closing

Sherry’s (Mom’s) life was a tapestry of love – woven from family, friendship, and faith.

Every person she touched became a thread in her story, each moment a reflection of her generous and gentle heart.

Though Sherry has left this world, her spirit remains in every smile she inspired, every kindness she shared, and every memory that still brings warmth to our hearts.

Her love endures, quietly and beautifully, in all of us who were blessed to be part of her life.

We are ever thankful for both Grace General and St Boniface Hospitals, especially the Heart ward 5A, for the amazing care of our Mother in her last days. 

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in Sherry’s name to either Heart and Stroke Foundation or Lung Association of Manitoba. 

Thank you Todd and Jacqueline, and Interlake Cremation and Memorial Services for assisting us in all steps and taking special care of Mom for us .

Family and friends are invited to share memories and condolences on Sherry’s memorial page using the comment field below.

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