Sherilyn "Sherri" Kay Anderson

Sherilyn “Sherri” Kay Anderson, 63, of Albert Lea, Minnesota, passed away peacefully on Monday, October 13, 2025. A funeral service to celebrate her vibrant life will be held at Bayview Freeborn Funeral Home on Saturday, October 25, 2025, at 11:00 AM, with visitation from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM. Burial will follow at State Line Cemetery in Northwood, Iowa, with Chaplain Wendy Browne officiating.

Born on October 14, 1961, in Albert Lea to Darrell and Shirley (Barber) Giles, Sherri grew up alongside her siblings, Lester, Dawn, and Gravy; including a memorable year on the family’s “funny farm,” where they tried their hand at farming. After graduating from Albert Lea High School, she pursued studies in horticulture and worked various jobs in retail.

Sherri’s zest for life shone through her love of card games, where she could often be found at local Huckle Buck and cribbage tournaments. She claimed the first seat at every family poker game and shared her passion with her grandchildren, teaching them go-fish at a young age. She also enjoyed weekly bingo trips with Crystal and Justin, along with frequent casino visits with her daughter, Crystal and sister, Dawn.

A spirited competitor at heart, Sherri relished shooting pool, bowling, throwing darts, and belting out karaoke tunes; making friends wherever she went, whether in the leagues she joined, the tournaments she entered, or the casual games she played with such enthusiasm. At home, she found joy in watching game shows and listening to music, but nothing compared to time with her family.

Her most cherished moments included weekly outings with her brother-in-law Duane, scouring local restaurants for the best lunch and a cocktail; hosting her grandchildren for special birthday meals or casual hangouts filled with games; and savoring meals grilled by her son, Justin, where s’mores were always on the menu.

Those left to cherish Sherri’s memory, daughter, Crystal (Alexander) Jacobsen; son, Justin (Sam) Anderson; grandchildren, Zander, Evan, Wyatt, Lexie, Reyna and Christian; brother, Lester (Connie) Giles; sister, Dawn (Duane) Miller; goddaughter, Angi (Brian) Giles; nephews, Jeremy (Shanna) Phillips, Joshua (Dawn) Giles, and Jacob (Shannon) Giles; and great-nephews and nieces, Kody Phillips, Garrett Giles, and Lincoln Giles. She was preceded in death by her parents, Darrell and Shirley, and her brother, Gravy Giles.

Sherri’s warmth, laughter, and love for her family will be deeply missed but forever remembered. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials.