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
“Your Bridge Over Troubled Waters”
I have been blessed to know Ms. Sherlene for over 50 years. I met her daughter when we were just in the 2nd grade, living across the street from each other. From the very beginning, Ms. Sherlene welcomed me into her home and treated me like one of her own.
She had a heart full of love, a warm smile, and a spirit that made everyone feel special. Her kindness and strength were felt by all who knew her. I will always cherish the memories of her laughter, her wisdom, and the way she made people feel seen and cared for.
Rest well, Ms. Sherlene—you were truly one of a kind, and you will be missed dearly.
ACG Hospice sends deepest condolences and prayers for comfort and healing to the family of Sherlene Bethley during this difficult time. It has been an honor being with your family during this difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers will continue to be with you. Your ACG Hospice Team.
"He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away"...To the immediate family, friends, other loved ones and Ms. Lillie, may you all find strength in GOD during this difficult time and the days ahead...I will truly miss Sherelene...No matter when or where she saw me, she always had a hug, smile and our very own personal conversation. Thank you for those times beautiful one
Expressing my deep sorrow, heartfelt sympathy and sincere condolences to Deborah, Vale, Rodney (Marketta), Bernard, Lilly Young, family and friends as you mourn the loss of your loved one.
May our loving Lord comfort and console you and give you peace during this time of bereavement.
May you cherish the memories and the love Sherlene left in your heart.
I share in your grief and send my love and know that you are in my thoughts and prayers.
Sherlene is on a journey toward eternal life. Life has changed - not ended.
Sherlene will be greatly missed by family and friends. I am going to miss my favorite first cousin.
To the family my peace and Christ be with you always.
Extending Deep Sympathy Gwendolyn M. Bonner
Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.