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Sharrell's obituary

In Loving Memory of Sharrell “Sherry” Laree Rose

Sharrell Laree Madsen—known to friends and family as Sherry—was a lifelong artist whose canvas was the world around her. She passed on December 27, 2025 in San Luis Obispo. Born in Cucamonga, 1949, at the base of Mount Baldy, Sherry’s journey was defined by a restless curiosity and an innate ability to find and create beauty in every discipline she touched.

Sherry’s artistic career began in hair design. As a licensed cosmetologist, she treated hairstyling as fine art, earning recognition in professional design shows for her avant-garde creations. Her thirst for experience eventually led her away from the salon and into the Peace Corps; alongside her husband, she traveled to the West Indies to serve others before returning to California, where she lived in Santa Barbara and Ventura.

Her professional repertoire was remarkably diverse. She served as a studio artist for Goebel, applying her meticulous touch to the world-renowned Hummel figurines. Never one to stop learning, she studied graphic design and eventually transitioned into the field of kitchen design, where she blended architectural drafting with a sophisticated eye for interior aesthetics.

Sherry’s creativity flourished outdoors as well. A passionate gardener, she spent time working at a nursery to increase her botanical knowledge. This culminated in her own front landscape design, which received local acclaim and won a top prize for "Best Xeriscape." Her award-winning garden stood as a testament to her commitment to sustainability and functional beauty.

In her later years, Sherry combined her fashion sense, photography skills, and business acumen to launch a highly successful online store, generating over six figures in revenue. During this time, she also selflessly served as a devoted caretaker for elderly family members, balancing her entrepreneurial drive with a deep, compassionate heart.

A true citizen of the world, Sherry was a passionate traveler. Her adventures took her across the globe—from the historical sites of Rome, Russia, and Greece to the landscapes of Africa, Tunisia, and Costa Rica. She was a dedicated student of history, an avid follower of the Royal Family, and a lover of cats.

Sherry’s legacy is one of transformation and God’s blessings. Whether through a sketched design, a blooming garden, or a perfectly curated home, she left every place more beautiful than she found it. She is deeply missed by family, friends, and the community she inspired.

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Sharrell "Sherry" Rose