Sherry R. Dant

Sherry R. Dant, 69, of Princeton, Illinois, passed away on Saturday, October 31, 2026, at Liberty Village in Princeton.

Sherry was born on July 11, 1957, in Sterling, Illinois, the daughter of Glenn Whitmer and Sandra Boender. She graduated from Manlius High School in 1975 and later attended Sauk Valley Community College.

Sherry dedicated 20 years to the Illinois Department of Human Services as a caseworker, serving Putnam, Marshall, and finally Bureau counties. On March 9, 1996, Sherry married Jeff Dant. Together, they shared a love of traveling, cooking, laughter, and life’s adventures, making countless memories along the way.

Sherry was truly one of a kind. She was the life of the party, and sometimes, she was the party. She was hilarious, stubborn to a fault, and never one to shy away from speaking her mind. She loved fiercely, especially when it came to those closest to her. She had a way of making ordinary moments memorable, and if you knew Sherry, chances are you have a story or two to tell.

Sherry enjoyed life’s simple pleasures: cooking, shopping, riding her bike, and spending sunny days lounging by the swimming pool. Music and dancing were always part of her life, and she especially loved traveling with Jeff. She was also a devoted Chicago Bears fan, cheering them on through the good seasons and the not-so-good ones.

Sherry’s love for animals knew no bounds. She never seemed to meet an animal in need that she didn’t want to bring home. Whether rescuing a stray or welcoming another four-legged friend, she was always ready to make room for one more. Her dogs and cats were family, especially her beloved Jethro.

Some of the most special memories were the simplest ones. Long car rides and road trips with her daughter, Melanie, often turned into their own little concerts, singing along to favorite songs, laughing, and making memories to treasure forever.

Above all, Sherry cherished her family and friends. The time spent together, the laughter, and the memories made will forever be treasured by those who loved her.

Sherry is survived by her daughter, Melanie Whitmer of Princeton; her brother, Greg (Shannon) Whitmer of Manlius; her niece, Kaycie (Mitch) Wilson of Hennepin; her nephew, Troy (Chrissy Cates) Seibech of LaSalle; and her great-niece and great-nephews, Ava Seibech, Karson Wilson, and Karter Wilson.

She was preceded in death by her father, Glenn Whitmer; her mother and stepfather, Sandra and Jim Boender; her beloved husband, Jeff Dant; and her grandmother, Rena Mylin.

A private celebration of Sherry’s life will be held at a later date. Cremation rites have been accorded. Memorial donations may be made to Friends of Strays.

Sherry leaves behind countless memories, plenty of stories worth telling, and a whole lot of love. She was funny, feisty, and unapologetically herself. Life won’t be quite the same without her, but those who knew and loved her will always have a little bit of Sherry to carry with them.