Sherry Dian Wilson

Sherry Dian Wilson, age 82, passed away peacefully on May 16, 2026, in Idaho Falls, Idaho. She was born on December 12, 1943, in Fort Wayne, Indiana, to Romane Humphrey Cole and Harriett Alyce Rigsbee.

Sherry grew up in Fort Wayne, alongside her three siblings—her sister Cathy, and brothers Mike and Marty. Some of her happiest childhood memories were made at her grandmother Rigsbee’s farm in Decatur, Indiana, where she developed a lifelong love for family, tradition, cooking, and the simple life. She graduated from Elmhurst High School in 1962. Then, a short 3 years later on October 10, 1965, she married the love of her life, Art Wilson. They were married for nearly 60 years before he passed on July 14, 2025.

A talented hairdresser by trade and necessity with nine children, Sherry brought beauty, confidence, and kindness to everyone who sat in front of her, no matter where it was. But her greatest calling—and her proudest accomplishment—was raising her nine beautiful children, who were the center of her world. She nurtured them with creativity and a deep belief in the importance of learning with a curiosity that lives on in her children and grandchildren today.

Sherry’s passions were many. She loved art, music, especially the piano, and genealogy. She attended cosmetology school in Indiana, the Columbia School of Art & Design in Ohio, and finished her Associate of Arts degree from BYU-I as an adult learner. She passed these interests on to her children, weaving the arts into the fabric of their home. She delighted in family RV trips and used every journey as a chance to teach her children

about the world around them. Whether exploring Washington, D.C., walking the fields of Gettysburg, or experiencing the magic of Disney World.

Her faith was a guiding force throughout her life. Sherry and her husband served a service mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Layton, Utah, at the Layton FamilySearch Center, where she joyfully helped others discover their family stories as she researched hers.

As the years ticked by, Sherry embraced her most cherished identity—Grandmother. Her grandchildren became her heart’s focus. She loved camping trips, fishing adventures with Grandpa, and every moment spent watching her children and grandchildren go through life.

Sherry is survived by her nine children, 27 grandchildren, and 3 great-grandchildren, all of whom carry forward her legacy of creativity, curiosity, and love. She was preceded in death by her husband Art, parents, Romane and Harriett, and her beloved granddaughter Koleena.

Sherry’s life was a tapestry of devotion—to her family, her faith, and the beauty she found in the world. She will be remembered for her gentle strength, her artistic spirit, and the love she poured into every generation she touched.

Services will be held on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, at Eckersell Memorial Chapel, 101 West Main Street Rigby, ID 83442, at 11 a.m., under the direction of Eckersell Funeral Home with Bishop Chris Campbell presiding. A viewing will be held prior to the funeral service from 9:30 – 10:45 a.m. Interment will be at Grant Central Cemetery, 154 N 3300 E Rigby, ID 83442. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Foundation for Art & Healing (artandhealing.org).