On May 3, 1963 in Greensboro, North Carolina, Sharri Mechelle Orr was born to Marie Orr-McClure and Isaiah Jackson Sr. One could only imagine that she was born with that infectious smile that has been a blessing to us all. While Sharri’s pre-adult years were rooted in North Carolina, she relocated to Glen Cove, New York, following her graduation from Northeast Guilford High School; class of ‘81’. In 1985, Sharri furthered her educational studies at Weymouth Business & Technical Institute.
Sharri’s nurturing spirit and passion to help others called her to the field of medicine, which she embraced for over 30 years. Her most recent position was held at New York-Presbyterian of Queens as the Unit Secretary. She was not only proud of her job, but felt blessed by colleagues whom she grew to love, as well as appreciated the opportunity to engage with her nephew Talih, who oftentimes would take a break from his position at the hospital, to pay a friendly visit. Throughout her tenure in the medical field, Sharri also held positions in retail and garnered an appreciation for fashion & modeling; which resulted in Sharri partaking in various hair shows and showcased in magazines.
In 1992, Sharri met Audie Gocan, who would become her life partner for 32 years. Although she did not bare children of her own, her devotion and dedication to her nieces and nephews was a true reflection of God’s love.
Family gatherings, dancing, traveling and shopping filled Sharri’s heart with joy. She welcomed any opportunity to celebrate other’s accomplishments, milestones and successes. Sharri was filled with excitement as she planned to celebrate her 61st birthday by attending her niece Londyn’s Sweet 16, whom she shares the same birthday. Although she was unable to attend, her beautiful smile, contagious laughter and unwavering love could be felt throughout the room. Often times you can find Sharri hanging out in Westbury with her sister’s Sharon and Vicky. She loved spending time with her siblings and it was almost guaranteed that at some point one would hear Sharri say: “Leave me alone Sharon (in that distinguishing voice of hers),” and Sharon would respond: “Sharri stop being a baby.” However, no matter the situation and/or ‘ask,’ Sharri’s heart knew no bounds when it came to helping others. If you needed Sharri’s assistance, she was always willing to lend a helping hand. Her unconditional love for other’s surpassed family and was extended to colleagues and friends.
As Sharri began to endure some challenges with her health, God remained at the forefront of her life. She knew that his grace and her faith would get her through the trials and tribulations that would come. And although she had her own medical battles to bare, Sharri was dedicated to traveling to North Carolina to spend quality time with her late mother and whenever possible continued to share in the joys of family celebrations. Sharri fought a good fight and on the evening of June 29, 2024, she surrendered to God’s will and was freed from her pain and suffering.
Sharri is preceded in death by her parents Marie Orr-McClure and Isaiah Jackson Sr. She leaves to cherish her memory, her siblings: Deborah, Sharon, Vicky (David), Barbara, Wayne (Maxine), Ike, Larry (Carol), Robert (Bonita), Leroy (Marlene) and Michael. And a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews, cousins, family, friends and loved ones. We will all be Sharri’s forever “Boopie” and her beautiful smile, self-less heart and giving spirit will forever be anchored in our hearts.
Online condolences may be made at www.haneslineberryfhsedgefield.com
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