Sherri L. Gifford-Hopkins, 53, of Winslow, died March 26 after a brief illness at MaineGeneral Medical center in Augusta. She was surrounded by loving family and friends as she passed.
Born in Boston, Mass., May 31, 1957, she was the daughter of Sherman and Helen Gifford.
Sherri graduated from Nipmuc Regional High School in Mendon, Mass., class of 1975.
She attended UMA in Augusta and Thomaston where she studied social sciences.
Sherri was known by family and friends for her kindness, openness, and willingness to help anybody at anytime. She had an open door policy and always had sound advice.
She worked at Fieldcrest Manor in Waldoboro for several years.
Sherri volunteered for Coastal Economic Development (CED) in Damariscotta where she worked closely with longtime friend, Ellie Busby, helping low-income families. She was also a volunteer for Names Chapter Maine.
Sherri stood by her best friend, Sharron Carlson, with her ongoing battle with cancer until Sherri became ill with cancer herself.
Sherri is predeceased by a sister, Cheryl Gifford.
Sherri is survived by her parents, Sherman and Helen (Sheffield) Gifford of Nobleboro; uncle, Larre Gifford of Bath; son, Shaun Hopkins and wife Melissa of Winslow and their children, Desiree, Gabrielle, Caden, Mallory, Shaun Jr. and Lukas; daughter, Christina (Hopkins) Pena-Cantor of Waterville, and her children Austin Bing, Teyah Dibert and Malakhi Hopkins; daughter, Amanda Hopkins of Winslow and her children Danae Gibson and Davenee Reny; a very special “son,” Thomas “Taz” Benvie of Springvale; sisters, Sandra (Gifford) Tougas and husband Mike of Rockland and Sharon Faloon and husband Jay of Winslow; brother, Scott Gifford of Warren; as well as several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and extended family and friends. Over the years many of her friends have become family, and were with her during her last days.
Celebration of life and benefit dinner 2 p.m., Sun., April 17 at Coyotes, 97 Veterans Dr., Winslow.
In lieu of flowers, if interested in donating please contact Sharon Faloon at 692-4549 or Amanda Hopkins 692-6560.
