Obituary of Sheryl L. Lawrence

Edison - Sheryl L. Lawrence, 64, passed away, with her family at her side on, Wednesday, April 2, 2014 at JFK Medical Center in Edison. Born in Plainfield, Sheryl was raised in Garwood and graduated from Arthur L. Johnson Regional High School in Clark. Sherry received her Bachelor's Degree from The College of New Jersey and her Master's Degree from Kean University. She resided in Edison since 1976. For over forty years, she worked as a Special Education Teacher for South Plainfield Public School System. Ms. Lawrence taught at the John E. Riley, Kennedy and Franklin Elementary Schools before retiring in June of 2012. For her expertise and dedication, she was honored as "Teacher of the Year." Beyond her classroom duties, Ms. Lawrence mentored several student teachers, served on numerous committees, her favorite being the "Sunshine" and worked with may organizations, such as P.T.O., within the school community. Even after retirement Ms. Lawrence volunteered and shared her talents and time when she was asked to do so. Sheryl was also an active member with the First Presbyterian Church of Metuchen, where she served as an Elder and Deacon. A "teacher at heart", Ms. Lawrence at one time headed the Christian Education Commission, supervised the Junior Club (for many years), and served on several other committees. She will perhaps be remembered most for her delightful children's sermons, which captivated children and adults alike. Predeceased by her parents; George Jr. and Naomi (Gundersen) Lawrence, Sherry is survived by her devoted brother, Michael Lawrence of Princeton and her loving sister Tracy Lawrence of Edison. Aunt Sherry will also be sorely missed by her nephew, Ben and her nieces Cassandra and Olivia. Sherry will be remembered and cherished by her family, friends and colleagues for her compassion, devotion, generosity, kindness, selflessness and sense of humor. Funeral services will begin on Monday, April 7, 2014 at11AM in the McCriskin - Gustafson Home For Funerals, 2425 Plainfield Ave., South Plainfield, NJ 07080 followed by a 12PM funeral mass in the First Presbyterian Church of Metuchen, 270 Woodbridge Ave., Metuchen NJ 08840. Cremation will follow privately. Family and friends may attend visitation on Sunday, April 6, 2014 from 4-8PM in the funeral home. Donations may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.