Betty Lee Sherrill

1956-2026

 

 Betty Lee Sherrill, 70, of Keokuk, Iowa, passed away at her home on Sunday, July 5, 2026.

     Betty was born on January 21, 1956, in Keokuk, Iowa, the daughter of Larry and Mary (Henley) Sherrill. She graduated from Mt. Zion High School in Mt. Zion, Illinois, with the Class of 1974.

     Throughout her life, Betty held a variety of occupations.  She began her career working as a nurse's aide before becoming a certified medical technician. Betty later went to police academy and completed her training at the University of Illinois in Champaign-Urbana and made history as the first female police officer in Decatur, Illinois, serving the community for five years. She later spent ten years as a semi-truck driver.  Most recently, Betty was employed at the Hampton Inn in Keokuk, where her quick thinking and compassion were evident when she performed CPR on a guest, saving his life.

     Betty had a deep love for animals and especially enjoyed attending all types of animal shows. She was an avid collector of Beanie Babies and took great pride in her extensive collection. She loved decorating her home for the holidays, with Halloween and Christmas being her favorites. Betty also enjoyed watching movies and never missed an episode of Ghost Adventures, hosted by Zak Bagans. Above all, Betty had a generous heart and was always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone in need.

     She is survived by her son, Matthew Lorenz of Cincinnati, Ohio; her son-in-law, Johnathon Lorenz of Cincinnati, Ohio; her mother, Mary Sherrill of Keokuk; two brothers, Doug Sherrill of Des Moines, Iowa, and Larry Sherrill Jr. of Keokuk; and four sisters, Linda Nihiser of Keokuk, Judy Lash of Clinton, Illinois, Terri Sherrill of Washington, Iowa, and Diana Richardson of Keokuk.

     She was preceded in death by her infant son, David Joseph Lorenz, and her brother, Michael Sherrill.

     In accordance with Betty's wishes, cremation has taken place, and no services will be held.

     The Vigen Memorial Home in Keokuk, IA is assisting the family with arrangements.

     Online condolences may be left for the family at www.vigenmemorialhome.com