Loving, caring, crazy, full of life, meaningful
Sherry Payne Mchaffie and her twin brother, Terry, entered the world uniquely connected — joined by a toe — a detail that reflected the closeness they would share throughout their lives. She grew up alongside Terry, her sister DJ Payne, and her brother Robert Payne, raised by their parents, Deborah, and Glenn Payne. From the beginning, Sherry was energetic, outgoing, and full of personality.
As a child, she was often laughing, racing in sack races, riding bikes, and walking along train tracks with Terry. Terry shared that Sherry had an instinct for knowing when something was wrong with him. One meaningful moment was standing beside him at his wedding.
Sherry first pursued cosmetology before transferring to horticulture, where she found work that connected her creativity with her love of nature. Later, she worked at Findlay Industries, providing for her son and making sure he had what he needed.
The birth of her son, Eric Steele, was one of the most important moments of her life. She loved him deeply and worked hard to give him opportunities. She was married to Scott Mchaffie, and built a life centered on family. Her extended family included her granddaughter, Zemira Steele; her close friend Teresa Miller; and many nieces and nephews who describe her as more than an aunt. She was someone they could talk to, laugh with, and rely on. She looked forward to spoiling Zemira, but passed away before she was born. Eric looked forward to his mom being a grandmother, knowing she would be an amazing one to Zemira.
Sherry loved being surrounded by people, whether at gatherings, holidays, or vacations. Family trips to Hocking Hills, Ohio, and to Cedar Point were especially meaningful. She enjoyed the thrill of amusement park rides and the time spent together. Sherry loved playing cards around the table, hosting movie nights, and celebrating every holiday. She also loved pie. Time in the sun made her happy, and she enjoyed simply being outside and present in the moment. Family members consistently describe her as loving, loyal, and protective. Sherry always welcomed people without judgment and made them feel included.
Sherry had a deep love for animals. She treated her dogs like family and once even owned a skunk, which perfectly captured her bold, unique spirit. She embraced what she loved without worrying about others’ opinions and did not shrink herself to meet expectations.
Sherry lived with substance use disorder for approximately 20 years. Over time, her family saw changes in her; she wasn’t herself. The outgoing, active, and playful person they knew became less present. There were conflicts and painful moments. Watching her lose parts of the life she had built was difficult. Still, they continued to love her and hope for recovery.
Sherry’s life continues to influence those who loved her. Eric has shared that losing his mother helped him recognize the path toward recovery for himself and for his daughter.
Her niece, Alisha Beck, carries Sherry’s story into her own recovery and advocacy work. Today, she serves as Program Director of the Recovery Spot of West Georgia, She is a Certified Peer Specialist in Addictive Disease, meeting people exactly where they are and walking alongside them as they discover and build their own pathway to recovery.
What her family misses most is her playful teasing, the funny nicknames she gave, and the feeling that they could call her about anything and be received with care and guidance. She is especially remembered for her special way of loving and caring for her family and friends.
Sherry’s niece, Alisha Beck, provided the information for this narrative.
May 14, 1970-December 4, 2019-Age 48
Portrait Artist: Shawn Faust
Narrative Writer: Barbara Francois
