Sherri Robinson

Sherri Rae Robinson passed away peacefully in Spokane on July 19, 2025, at the age of 69, after a sudden and unexpected illness. Her final days were spent surrounded by the love and comfort of her family.

Born on August 21, 1955 in Maywood, California, to the late Raymond and Leona Robinson, Sherri moved to Spokane in 1978 with her husband, Steve Ross. They shared 47 wonderful years of marriage, raising a family and building a life rooted in love, community, and meaningful work. She was a wonderful wife and a proud mother, and an active and admired member of her family and the communities she held dear.

Sherri built a successful career in pharmaceutical sales with Schering-Plough (later Merck), where she formed lasting relationships with the medical community across the Pacific Northwest. Her professionalism, integrity, and care left an enduring impression on her colleagues and clients alike.

After retiring, Sherri devoted her time to deepening her many relationships with friends and family. She loved hosting dinner parties, participating in book clubs, and often traveling to visit family, especially her children and grandchildren in New York. Sherri evinced a deep level of care for her loved ones through cards she wrote, phone calls she made, and cookies she baked.

Sherri’s interests were as rich as her relationships. She adored animals—especially her dog, Mr. Carson. She found joy in attending theater and musical performances, and embraced the natural beauty of the world through gardening, birdwatching, and hiking. She and Steve shared a love of travel, exploring destinations near and far. Just a month before her passing, she fulfilled a lifelong dream by sailing through the Greek Islands.

Sherri’s Christian faith guided her life. A devoted member of Spokane Valley United Methodist Church, she organized meals for those in need and sponsored children in poverty through Compassion International. She cherished meeting one of the children she sponsored—who is now a nurse—during a memorable trip to Peru.

A dedicated community member, Sherri volunteered with and supported many local organizations, including the Animal Protection Services (SCRAPS), Inland Community Gardens, Friends of the Library, and Broadway Elementary. She was a Spokane Symphony Associate and served on the planning commission for Spokane Valley. A staunch progressive, Sherri was also the local precinct chair for the Democratic Party.

Sherri is survived by her cherished husband, Steve; daughters, Jenni (Aveek) and Beth; grandsons, Milan and Rohit; and a wide circle of family, friends, and community members who were fortunate to know her. For all who did, Sherri was an unconditional source of support, connection, and encouragement. Her kindness, generosity, and quiet service will be deeply missed.

A celebration of Sherri’s life will be held at Spokane Valley United Methodist Church on August 16 at 11 a.m. In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations in Sherri’s memory to the Spokane Symphony, KSPS PBS Spokane, and the Spokane Valley United Methodist Church.