Ms. Sherlene, 82, of Gadsden, AL, passed away on Thursday, April 24, 2025.A Life Dedicated to Service

Ms. Sherlene Bethley was born on March 28, 1943, in Ruth, Mississippi, to the late H.M. Bethley and Ruby May. She peacefully entered into eternal rest on April 24, 2025.

Ms. Sherlene lived a life full of faith, love, and service. She had a special gift for nurturing both the earth and the hearts of those around her. Her love for planting flowers made her yard a vibrant and beautiful reflection of her joyful spirit.

Ms. Sherlene began her career of service with the Gadsden City Board of Education in the field of child nutrition, where she worked for 25 years. After retiring, she continued her love for serving others by working for 5 years in the cafeteria at Gadsden Regional Hospital and briefly with Johnson Foods. She also worked the summer programs each year, always willing to lend her helping hands.

For over forty years, Ms. Sherlene was a devoted and faithful member of Galilee Baptist Church. She was a proud member of the church choir, served as President of the Usher Board, and was an active member of the Kitchen Committee, always giving her time, energy, and love to her church family. She lovingly became “Mom” to many of the children in the congregation, offering them encouragement, wisdom, and unconditional love.

Ms. Sherlene’s kindness, faith, and nurturing spirit touched countless lives, and her legacy will continue to bloom in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her. Her most famous quote: “Everybody gets a chance.”

Preceded in Death:• Father, H.M. Bethley; Mother, Ruby May; Beloved son, Gregory Thornton; Brothers, L.D. Bethley and Velter L. Bethley; Nephew, Frederick Young; Daughter-in-law, Tawana Davis

Ms. Sherlene lives on through her loving and devoted children: Daughters, Deborah J. Moore and Valerie Curry; Sons, Rodney (Marketta) Curry and Jesse Curry; Sister: Lillie Young; Brother, H.M. Bethley;16 Grandchildren and 19 Great-grandchildren. A host of special nieces and nephews; Special Friends: Betty Stephens, Mable Whittaker, Brenda Card, Meschelle Love, Donna Smoots, Sheldon Montgomery, Sharon Bryant-Maness; Special Neighbors, Charlotte Nelson, Ruby Nelson, Kim Miller, Gene Handy and a host of cousins, other relatives and friends.

We ask that you please keep this family in your hearts and prayers during their time of bereavement.

A Celebration of Life will be Saturday, May 3, 2025 at 12 noon at the West Gadsden (Reverend Dr. G,E. & Betty Robinson Chapel).

Premier Provider of Professional Services: West Gadsden Funeral Home. 256-549-0004

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