Len Sherrell
Obituary
Albert Len Sherrell was born May 4, 1935 in Roswell, New Mexico to A.F. and Frances Sherrell. He passed from this life Wednesday, January 29, 2014 in Tulsa, Oklahoma at the age of 78.
Len grew up in Ada, OK alongside his brother, Herb and graduated from Byng High School in 1954. After high school he moved to Tulsa where he worked for a local car dealership. Len married Jean Creekmore in El Reno, OK on January 11, 1959; the same year he enlisted in the Air Force Reserve. The couple started Sherrell Paint & Body in June of 1959. Over those 55 years Len was in business, he gained many new customers who quickly became his friends and led to his business motto, "Making Friends Through Business." Len retired in 2007 and the business is now operated by his son.
Len was actively involved with dirt track racing around Oklahoma all his life. He sponsored local race driver, Jackie Howerton which inspired him to build and race his own car. His driving career was cut short due to a horrific crash at Muskogee's Thunderbird Speedway in 1969. Len had many interests and hobbies, including restoring various antiques and cars. He is known as a world class practical joker.
Len was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Herb Sherrell. He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Jean; his children, Gary, Vic and his wife, Lisa, Terri and her husband, Mark; grandchildren, Jodi Kendrick, Matt and Stacey Sherrell, Corbin Sherrell, Chelsea and Austin Simon; and, his three great-grandchildren.
Len's family would like to send their most sincere thanks and appreciation to the caring employees of Cancer Treatment Centers of America and Rose Rock Hospice.
Events
Tributes & Memories
When i was 5 or 6 my mom would take me by the shop to see my uncle glen who worked there. I met Len who over time called me his adopted nephew.
Over a lot of years he and my uncle were the influences over my career in the paint and body business. Now i am retired. Len used to give me advice when i had my first body shop. I miss you uncle Len..always grateful . Henry milo
Hank
Hank Sumpter
May the heavens welcome Len, a man of immense spirit who embraced life with courage and optimism. His wisdom was matched only by his gentleness and love; his intelligence mirrored in his analytical mind. In adopting me as family, he demonstrated selflessness, enriching my journey with laughter and kindness. His influence marked my path to retirement, instilling in me his passion for our shared trade. Len's memory lives on; a testament to his generous soul we will always cherish.
Hank Sumpter
Lit a candle in memory of Len Sherrell
Linda Sherrell
Dad, I hope you knew how very special we're and still are to me. I could always count on an ear to listen, lips to give good advice and a heart full of love for me. I miss you so much. It always meant so much yo me when you told me how proud if me you were. It was an unconditional love for sure. You always said how pretty you thought I was. Coming from your dad that's so special. Your love for mom was never ending. You made sure she had everything she needed or wanted at the end. I love you so much. I just hope you knew how much. I will see you again.
Terri Evans
Farewell to one of the finest men I have ever known. Your jokes and pranks are legendary. When our paths crossed, you always left me with a smile on my face. You will never be forgotten.
Phil Pace
Rest in peace my friend. I will forever cherish our long talks about life in general. You were my inspiration to continue racing in our family after our tragedy. You always made me smile. Praying for your family.
Alma Frazier Nelson
Len you will truly be missed! Your smile, your laughter, your generosity, you quit wit and practical jokes! You were a most amazing individual and human being! To all who knew you from the moment they met you we felt we were family, your friend! Your love! Thank you you always made us laugh! But you instilled in all of us that fun loving spirit that you showed each of us! You will live on in all our memories and fun stories that you shared with us that we will continue to tell & share with others! You have also instilled all of your wonderful qualities in your children , grandchildren, & great grandchildren so you will live on! Thanks for all the great memories! We love you!
Sharon Taylor