Sherry Lou Schmalshof, 83, of Quincy, Illinois, passed away at 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, at her home.

She was born on September 30, 1942, in Quincy, Illinois, the daughter of Joseph Keith and Dolores “Lolly” (Nordstrom) Keith. She was a graduate of Quincy Notre Dame High School.Sherry was first married to her high school sweetheart, Phillip Duesterhaus, who preceded her in death following an automobile accident in 1967. She later married J.D. Schmalshof, who preceded her in death on June 26, 2017.

For many years, Sherry owned and operated a beauty salon at 7th and Jackson Streets in Quincy. She was an excellent seamstress and possessed a remarkable artistic talent.Family was the center of Sherry’s life. She treasured her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren and found her greatest joy in spending time with them. She lovingly cared for her aging parents and was always willing to lend a helping hand to family, friends, and neighbors. Sherry enjoyed working puzzles, and was known for her sharp mind, quick wit, and wonderful sense of humor. She was a strong, caring, compassionate woman whose kindness touched the lives of many.

Survivors include her seven children, John Duesterhaus of Charleston, South Carolina, Nancy Williams of Loveland, Colorado, Chris Duesterhaus of Charleston, South Carolina, Willie Duesterhaus of Charleston, South Carolina, Beth Duesterhaus of Quincy, Illinois, Tina Elliott of Memphis, Tennessee, and Jake Schmalshof of Quincy, Illinois; one brother, Joe Keith; five sisters, Dorothy “Dotty” Nehoff (Rod), Peggy Dailing, Annie Bocke (John), Nancy Avery, and Becky Joiner (Dana); along with numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, other relatives, and many friends.She was preceded in death by her parents; her husbands, Phillip Duesterhaus and J.D. Schmalshof; and one son in infancy.

According to Sherry's wishes, cremation rites have been accorded. 

A Celebration of Life for Sherry Schmalshof will be held on Sunday, July 19, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m. open house style for family and friends at 1921 Bramblewood Ln. (44th & Harrison) Quincy, Illinois. The care arrangements have been entrusted to J. Otto Funeral Home in Mendon.