THOMAS RUSSELL SHERRILL's Obituary
With deep love and sorrow, we announce the passing of Thomas Russell Sherrill, a devoted son, brother, uncle, cousin, friend, and respected businessman, who passed away peacefully on May 21, 2025, at the age of 77.
Born on July 7, 1947, in Asheville, NC, Russell lived a life marked by quiet strength, unwavering kindness, and deep spiritual conviction. A true gentleman, he had a way of making everyone he met feel valued and seen. His warmth, grace, and generosity of time and spirit left a lasting impression on countless people, many of whom would say he was one of the kindest and most special individuals they had ever known. Whether you knew him as Mr. Sherrill, Thomas, Russ, Rusty Bucket, TRS, Unc, Unc the Hunk, or Deebs, you knew his humor, charm, his love of beautiful architecture, unique and elegant furniture, and his desire for both lightness and perfection.
Russell built a successful career in real estate and property management, earning the trust and admiration of colleagues and tenants alike. Though soft-spoken, he was meticulous and principled, and his word carried weight. He was a man who led with integrity in both his business and personal life.
His deep devotion to his mother, Rita Durner Sherrill, was a defining part of his life, and he held her memory with reverence. He was also preceded in death by his beloved sister, Jayne Sherrill Flynn, with whom he shared a close and enduring bond, and his father, David Lorenzo Sherrill.
He is survived by his brother, David Lorenzo Sherrill (wife Charlotte), and his sister Karen Sherrill Hucks. He was a loving uncle to Heather Flynn Odeh (husband Rami) and Sheryl Flynn (husband Chris Ashford), and a proud great-uncle to Hana Jayne Odeh and Ryan Farouk Odeh. He is also survived by dear cousins Carolyn "Bee" Sirkin, Beth Durner, and Catherine Durner Ball and their children, along with many extended family and close friends who will forever cherish his memory.
Rooted in his strong Catholic faith, Russell had a special spiritual connection to Padre Pio, and often reflected on his teachings of humility, compassion, and prayer. A believer in the quiet power of thought and intention, he lived by the mantras: “What you think about grows" and "Pray, Hope, and Don't Worry", with not worrying being the most difficult to follow, he'd say.
Russ found peace and joy at his North Carolina lake house, which he would say reminds him of an elegant home in Lake Como. He loved filling his home with easy classical music. He was a private gentleman who had a great appreciation for staying active by riding his bike, loved to linger at breakfast and drink a cup of coffee, and take care of his plants, especially his roses. He was someone who made time for people—never rushed, always present—and in doing so, he made others feel important.
A Funeral Mass will be held on June 27 at 10:00 AM at St. Augustine Catholic Church in Coral Gables, where Russ was a devoted parishioner.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Russell's memory to the Missionaries of Charity, an organization he held close to his heart, reflecting his lifelong commitment to faith, humility, and service to others.
He will be remembered always for his gentle nature, thoughtful spirit, and the beautiful, meaningful life he lived.
What’s your fondest memory of THOMAS?
What’s a lesson you learned from THOMAS?
Share a story where THOMAS's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with THOMAS you’ll never forget.
How did THOMAS make you smile?