Sherry Proffitt Bonham

Sherry Bonham, beloved sister, aunt, and friend to many, died on Sunday. Born June 7, 1944, she came into the world weighing two pounds, surprising everyone with her strong will to live and thrive.

After earning her BA degree in English from Maryville College, and a master’s degree in education from the University of Tennessee, she began a career in teaching.

Sherry was a master gardener, lover of games, a teacher, avid reader and adventurer who traveled to all seven continents. In Africa, she climbed Mt. Kilimanjaro and rafted the Zambezi River, trekked in Nepal, climbed Machu Picchu in Peru, visited all 50 United States, Antarctica, New Zealand, and Australia.

Sherry was the oldest sister of Penny Piper, Marygray Hunter and Woody Proffitt. She taught her siblings and family how to be bold, brave, and live your life by facing your fears and exploring the world. An excellent cook, wonderful storyteller, and creative designer, she attracted many people to her circle in life and was loved by her family, nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and her cat.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Blount County Library— 508 N Cusick St, Maryville, TN 37804. https://www.blounttn.gov/2025/Public-Library The family will gather, at a later date, for a private memorial.