Sherryl S. (Shaffer) Cope

Sherryl Ann "Sherry" Cope, 75, of Lime Ridge, died Saturday, December 28 at Geisinger Medical Center, Danville. Born in Bloomsburg April 13, 1944, she was a daughter to the late Thomas and Elmira (Bankes) Shaffer. Sherryl grew up in Lime Ridge and graduated from Central Columbia High School, Class of 1962 and Bloomsburg State College. In 1965, she married the love of her life, Ralph Edward "Ed" Cope, and stood steadfast with him as he served as a pastor in the United Methodist Church. Together they ministered to parishes all over Pennsylvania during the course of Ed's career, which spanned more than 40 years. The couple had since retired back home to Lime Ridge in 2002. Those who knew Sherryl will remember her for the quiet, unassuming way she reached out to people and gave of herself. She sang in church choirs and was active in church ministries for many years. When her health limited her physical capabilities, she spent her days praying for people in need and sending countless notes and cards to people finding themselves in need of encouragement. She was a constant blessing to those in her own family and in her church families, and all without attention or fanfare. She would hate us making such a fuss over her passing, especially in such a public way as in a newspaper, but in her passing she deserves to be celebrated for the light that she gave during her years with us. She is already dearly missed and will always be cherished. A devoted mother, Sherryl is survived by her four children: Paul Cope of TX, Ann Marie Parker and husband, Glenn, of Williamsport, Deborah Rupright and husband, Craig, of IL, and Elisabeth Cope of DE. Also surviving are her 16 grandchildren and a great-grandchild. In addition to her parents, Sherryl was preceded in death by her brother, Edward Shaffer. All are welcome to join Sherryl's family for her viewings 6:00-9:00 PM Friday, January 3 and 9:00-10:00 AM Saturday, January 4 at Lime Ridge United Methodist Church, 6405 4th Street, Bloomsburg, PA 17815. Her funeral will be 10:00 AM Saturday, January 4, also at the church. Rev. Vincent N. Keister and Rev. Stephen Portner will officiate. Her burial will follow at Lime Ridge Cemetery. The Kelchner, McMichael & Readler Funeral Home is honored to assist the Cope family. Online messages of love and support can be left at www.kelchnerfuneralhome.com.