Homer Franklin
Sherwood, Jr.
Homer Franklin Sherwood, Jr. passed from this world into his heavenly home on December 11, 2020. He would have soon turned 101.
He attended Harrington High School until leaving home at age 16 to travel west to Colorado Springs Bible School. Later he transferred to and graduated from Colorado Springs High School. Colorado Springs Bible School attendees were later included as Oklahoma Wesleyan University alumni. After starting high school there, he met his future bride, Grace. Their love story began the day Homer whispered, "you've got something on your face!", touching her face, she urgently replied, "What is it?" Ever the tease, he said "Your nose!"
He was pastor of MBC Church in Harper, Kansas, and also pastor at Pilgrim Church in Haigler, Nebraska. The couple returned to Grace's family ranch in Nebraska for several years. Homer always said that working as a rancher was the best job he ever had. Returning to Delaware, he was a salesman for Sunbeam Bread for nine years and then worked for Sunshine Biscuit, retiring after 24 years. Working for the Lord continued to be a vital part of both of their daily lives as they served in numerous ministry opportunities in the Wesleyan Church. During retirement, they both kept busy with a large garden and Homer's saw sharpening business. Their union produced four children: Ardis (Noble) Wilhelm, Neil (Joyce) Sherwood, Marilyn (Tim) Hoffman, and Garold (Mary Lou) Sherwood.
Homer was preceded in death by his wife, Grace; one brother, and five sisters. Grace's passing in 2009 ended a marital union of 69 years. He is survived by two sisters, Helen Maloney, of Houston, and Phylis Cassey, of Milford. Eighteen grandchildren were a delight to them. Ardis' children are John, James and Jeff. Neil's children are Sam, Michael, John, Karen, Kimberly, Anna Marie and Natalie. Marilyn's children are Russ Jr., Judie, Amie, Michael, Angela and Nicholas. Garold's children are April and Andrew. Numerous great grandchildren and great great grandchildren were also cherished.
A graveside service will be private at the Hollywood cemetery in Harrington, Delaware. The family is planning to hold a memorial service at a later date to be announced.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that any contributions or memorials should be addressed to Calvary Wesleyan Church building fund 240 Delaware Ave., Harrington, Del.
Arrangements are by the Thomas E. Melvin & Son Funeral Home Inc, Harrington. Visit us at www.melvinfuneralhome.com to sign a condolence book.