Rev. Sherry Pierce Kinchloe was born to Jerome and Elizabeth Piece in Kingsport, TN, on December 16, 1953. After graduating from Lees-McRae College and attending ETSU, she returned to Kingsport and worked as a Case Manager for Indian Path Hospital and Superior Home Health. She married and gave birth to the joy of her life, Cameron.
Rev. Kinchloe joined Bethel A.M.E. Zion Church in 1990 and never believed in being just a "pew" member. She actively served in the Missionary Society, Stewardess Board, The Christian Education Department, and worked with the youth in their activities. In 1994, she received the call from God to teach and preach His Word. She was ordained as a Deacon in 2003 and an Elder in 2004 in the A.M.E. Zion Church. She assisted Rev. Kingsley Blay and several other pastors at Bethel before receiving her first appointment. She was assigned to Limestone A.M.E. Zion church for two years before transferring to her post in Jonesborough, TN.
In 2002, during her first year at Jonesborough, she had to undergo an emergency surgical procedure. Doug and Vivian Releford were faithful and loyal with their assistance and friendship during her recovery. She had a long and slow recovery, but she said, "Where I was weak, God was strong. I never lost my faith in God. He said I'll never leave nor forsake you, and He is still by my side." Despite challenges with mobility, she continued to rejoice and give God the glory.
Sherry's parents, Jerome and Elizabeth Pierce, preceded her in death.
She leaves to cherish fond memories her son, Cameron (Yaree) Grimes of Atlanta, GA; sisters, Star Morris of Lithonia, GA, and Aleea P. Tarplin of Stockbridge, GA; brother, Jerome (Blossom) Pierce of Kingsport, TN; the new joys of her life, her precious grandchildren, Pierce Cameron and Parker Grimes; niece, Beth (Jayce) Fulwider; nephews, Tyrome Avery, Bernard (Sharonda) Tarplin, and Byron Pierce Tarplin; great-nieces and nephews, Kanaan and Kassidy Fulwider and Myles, Maliyah, and Malachi Tarplin; paternal uncle, Jack (Betsy) Pierce; goddaughter, LaVonda Harris; and a host of relatives and friends.
A special thank you to cousins Rev. Dr. Charlotte and Rev. Joseph Comage for visiting and ministering to Sherry during her illness.
The family extends a thank you to all who knew and loved Sherry.
