With heaven’s gates open wide and her loved ones gathered close, Marnetter “Netta” Herring, beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, peacefully completed her earthly journey on April 18, 2025, in San Diego, California, at the age of 67, after a courageous year-long battle with cancer.

Born on December 12, 1957, in Chicago, Illinois, to Willie James Herring and Ella Mae Herring, Netta lived a life as vibrant, bold, and unstoppable as her spirit. From an early age, she embodied resilience and grace, becoming a skilled boxer and martial artist — fearless, determined, and full of heart. A true warrior, Netta was never afraid to speak her mind or meet life’s challenges with unwavering faith.

Motherhood became one of Netta’s greatest joys. After welcoming her son, Doneld Herring, she embraced a new chapter of love and purpose. Following the birth of her daughter, Erma Herring, she made the brave decision to move her family from Chicago to Elgin, Illinois, where she built a life rooted in warmth, community, and faith. In Elgin, she completed her beautiful family with the birth of her youngest daughter, Marlissa Herring — her heart’s greatest treasures gathered close.

Music was the soul of Netta’s life. She was once a proud member of many choirs, including the renowned Chicago Mass Choir, where her powerful voice lifted hearts and stirred spirits. She also served as a devoted leader of the Sunshine Band, nurturing the next generation through song, faith, and joy. Her voice could fill any space with warmth and praise. Netta’s wide, radiant smile and her wild, joyful laughter could light up any room, offering comfort, healing, and celebration wherever she went.

No matter where life led her, Netta’s energy and spirit were unstoppable. She remained ever active — walking long distances, gathering family, celebrating every moment. From trips to San Diego to holidays filled with laughter and love, Netta made friends and left lasting impressions from coast to coast. Her warmth, her humor, and her unwavering spirit made her beloved everywhere her footsteps carried her.

A lifelong seeker of knowledge, Netta delighted in research and storytelling, always eager to share her wisdom, experiences, and laughter with family and friends. She lived boldly, loved deeply, and found strength and grace in both triumph and trial.

Even as cancer touched her body, it could never dim her brilliant light. Netta faced each day with bravery, humor, and a faith so deep it inspired everyone around her. Her smile — wide, bright, and full of pure light — could lift even the heaviest hearts. Her laughter — wild, joyful, and free — was one of her greatest gifts, capable of breaking through sorrow and filling every space with life.

Netta loved the Lord with her whole heart, and her life reflected a faith that only grew stronger through every storm she faced.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Willie James Herring and Ella Mae Herring; her siblings, Pearlie Herring and Willie Herring; her husband, Donald Turner (1976); and her partner of twenty-seven years, Jack Allen (2018).

Netta’s extraordinary spirit lives on through her children, Doneld Herring, Erma Herring, and Marlissa Herring; her 10 grandchildren; her 4 great-grandchildren; her beloved siblings, Erma Reed (Arthur), Warlena Denton (Ernest), Anthony Herring (Caroline), and Tanno Muhammad (Bridgette); her cherished aunt, Lillian Tabor; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends who carry her light forward.

Netta’s life was a journey of courage, laughter, music, and unstoppable love. Though she has moved on to her eternal home, her song, her smile, and her spirit continue to shine brightly in every heart she touched.

"She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come." 

— Proverbs 31:25

"Keep walking, keep singing, keep speaking your truth. Your light and your fight live on."

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