Sherry Tomlinson Collura

Sherry Tomlinson Collura (March 10, 1947 – May 7, 2026), a longtime resident of Ponchatoula, Louisiana, passed away peacefully at home on May 7, 2026, after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. Sherry, the daughter of W. H. and Margaret (Shields) Tomlinson spent her early years in Starkville, Mississippi, graduating from Starkville High School in 1965. After graduation from high school, Sherry enrolled in the Gilfoy School of Nursing in Jackson, Mississippi, where she later earned her degree and was licensed as a Registered Nurse. Nursing provided Sherry with a ready path and sustainable future for helping people, which was her passion. Sherry’s professional career in patient care, patient advocacy, and patient safety, ultimately led her to Our Lady of the Lake Medical Center in Baton Rouge and later to North Oaks in Hammond. During her years of service, Sherry was a highly respected nurse and administrator, but more importantly, she was a trusted friend, confidant, and fierce protector of those she loved and represented. Her closest friends described her as “an exceptional nurse,” “memorable friend,” “gave the best hugs,” and “that she lived by two words; can and do.” Her laugh was unmistakable and was just another unique character trait that made her special. Sherry loved her Lord and Savior, cherished her family and friends, was an avid foodie and traveler. She was also a resolute and well-known cat lover. Gussie, Shadow, and Tiger will miss her, as will we all. Sherry spent her last days on earth as she wished; at home with her kitties and surrounded by her incredible friends who administered to her every need night and day for two long months. North Oaks Hospice was an important part of that process. Thank you!! Seeing that process unfold from beginning to end was truly the purest, most selfless act of love, friendship, and personal care imaginable and an inspiration to her entire family. Sherry is survived by her brother W. H. “Bill” Tomlinson (Nina) of Vicksburg, MS, niece Jessie Humble (Billy) Madison, MS, nephew Will Tomlinson (Katy), Brandon, MS and five great nieces and nephews (Evie, Thomas, Hannah, Walker, and Mary). All will miss their Aunt Sher-Sher, her visits, her laughter, her stories, her hugs, and most of all, her touch and presence in this life. We will see her again! A celebration of life was held on May 21 in Ponchatoula, where family and close friends gathered to share fond memories and stories of faith, life, and laughter. She did it her way….and that is exactly how she wanted to be remembered.

Tributes

Sherry Tomlinson Collura

March 10, 1947 - May 7, 2026