Obituaries

Mary “Aileen” Sherman (Kunkel), age 91, of Florence, Kentucky, passed away peacefully in her home on December 15, 2025, with her family surrounding her with loving presence and prayers filling the room.

Raised in Union Kentucky by her parents, Joseph and Anna Kunkel, alongside her siblings, Aileen attended St. Paul Catholic School and graduated from St. Henry Catholic School. She began her career at Cincinnati Bell, commuting downtown by bus while faithfully helping on the family farm as she always had since a young girl. When she got married to Jerry and had children, she dedicated her life to the family. Aileen approached life wholeheartedly—devoted to her family and enjoying each moment. She was known for her kindness, generous nature, radiant smile, uplifting spirit, and calm wisdom, often saying “let it pass” to those facing life’s troubles.

Aileen met her beloved husband, Jerry, at a dance, where she especially enjoyed slow dancing. He described her as the perfect wife. She showed her love through thoughtful gestures, always putting others first and delighting in giving meaningful gifts. Kind, pleasant, and selfless, she also carried a playful sense of humor. A devoted Catholic and member of St. Paul Parish, Aileen and Jerry spent many evenings praying together, faithfully preparing for Heaven.

She was remembered as rare—one of a kind—thoughtful in remembering names and birthdays, beautifully dressed with an attractive updo, never missing her children’s events, keeping a welcoming home, and possessing an uncanny ability to find lost items. Aileen’s life was a beautiful example of love, faith, and quiet grace.

Aileen is now reunited with her family in Heaven. Preceding her are her parents; Joseph Frank and Anna Marie Fahey Kunkel, siblings; Dolores (Ned) Kleier, Joseph (Pat) Kunkel, Betty Lou (Ted) Kleier, Charles Kunkel, Louis (Ann) Kunkel, Margaret (Dick) Gregory, and four infant siblings.

She is survived by her loving husband of 58 years, Jerry Sherman; dedicated daughters, Sheri (Masood Ali Khan) Sherman and Michelle (Matt) Krenner; and adoring grandchildren, Tristan and Taylor Krenner.

In lieu of flowers, family requests masses said for Aileen.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, December 18, 2025 at the Chambers and Grubbs Funeral Home, 8461 Dixie Highway, Florence, KY 41042 from 5:00pm to 7:00pm.

Funeral mass will be Friday, December 19, 2025 at St. Paul Roman Catholic Church, 7301 Dixie Highway, Florence, KY 41042 at 1:30pm.

A reception will be held for family and friends at the dimissal of mass at the Steeplechase Homeowners Association Clubhouse at 11301 Grand National Boulevard, Walton, KY 41094