Benjamin Ernest Sherrill

Benjamin E. Sherrill, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, teacher, and friend, passed away peacefully on August 30, 2025, at the age of 88.

Born on April 25, 1937, in St. Francis, Kansas, Ben lived a life marked by compassion, service, and deep faith. He married the love of his life, Nita Brewer, on December 13, 1958, and together they built a home filled with love, laughter, and unwavering support.

Ben earned his degree in Social Work from Southern Nazarene University and a Masters at Portland State University. He went on to make a lasting impact in his field. He founded the social work department at Northwest Nazarene University and was instrumental in achieving its accreditation. His dedication to his students and their success was evident in all he did—he believed in their potential and was proud of the good they brought to the world. His heart for service extended beyond the classroom. At Casey Family Program, Ben worked tirelessly with children in long-term foster care, providing not only professional support but also genuine care and love to those in need. Ben's Christian faith was the foundation of his life. It guided his every decision and was a source of strength and purpose. He served faithfully as a deacon at the First Presbyterian Church, where he was a cherished member of the congregation.

Ben is survived by his wife of 66 years, Nita; their three children, Dana (Steve) Dennis, Melissa (Scott) Riebe, and Kirk (Julie) Sherrill; seven grandchildren, Jake, Zach, Kylie, Conner, Coleman, Spencer, and Chandler; and four great-grandchildren, all of whom brought him immense joy. He was proceeded in death by his beloved foster son, Joe Hassis.

Those who knew Ben will remember his insatiable curiosity about others, his warm smile, and his welcoming hugs. He had a gift for making people feel seen, heard, and valued. With a generous and compassionate spirit, he championed the overlooked and celebrated the unique beauty in everyone he met. His life’s mission was to make the world a better place—and he did. Ben’s legacy will live on in the countless lives he touched with his kindness, wisdom, and unwavering love.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, September 6th at 10am at First Presbyterian Church in Boise, ID.

https://link.fpcboise.org/BenSherrillMemorial

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to The Ben Sherrill Scholarship fund for social work students at Northwest Nazarene University in honor of Ben’s lifelong commitment to helping others.