Our beloved family member Sherry Madison Wendenland of Jacksonville, FL passed away on August 11, 2025. She was born in Walker County, Alabama on October 19, 1946. Her family later moved to Muscle Shoals, where she attended Muscle Shoals High School and the University of North Alabama in Florence, Alabama. She was a cheerleader and active member of the drama club as she studied to get her degree in education. Post graduation, she was recruited to teach in Duval County, Florida where she met her husband, Vaughn. She later went on to get a master’s degree in library science from Florida State University. She retired from Duval County Public Schools after a long career as an educator and media specialist.
She is survived by her daughter, Holly Petrilla, granddaughter, Zinnia Petrilla, son-in-law Paul Petrilla, and sisters Joy Thompson and Yvonne Hicks. She was predeceased by her husband Vaughn Wendenland, parents Sophia and Arnold Madison, and siblings John Bill, Ronald, and Jo Nell Madison.
After retirement, she enjoyed spending time with her family, sailing on Caribbean cruises, sewing, and reading. She lit up a room with her presence and her love of conversation, and she will be dearly missed by those who knew her.
A visitation will be held at 10:00 am on Saturday, August 23rd at the Evergreen Chapel located under the bell tower in Evergreen Cemetery 4535 Main Street, Jacksonville, FL. followed by the service which will begin at 11:00 am. Arrangements are under the direction and care of Evergreen Funeral Home
Donations in her memory can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, Habitat for Humanity, or the Literacy Alliance of Northeast Florida.
Add Comment