Sherry Rider Smith

Sherry Rider Smith, a devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and caregiver, passed away peacefully on April 30, 2026, at the age of 77. Born on May 25, 1948, in Ville Platte, Louisiana, Sherry resided in Upper Pine, where she built a life centered on love, family, and service to others.

Sherry was an excellent homemaker, dedicating herself wholeheartedly to raising her family and creating a warm, peaceful home. She also worked as a seamstress at Holloway Sportswear Inc. from 1991 to 1992 and later served others at Prairie Manor Nursing Home as a cook from 1992 to 1998. In addition, she provided childcare in her home, where her nurturing spirit touched the lives of many children and families.

Taking care of others was truly Sherry's calling. She was known for her kind heart, gentle nature, and unwavering devotion to those she loved. She especially enjoyed caring for her yard and took pride in cutting her grass, always working to make her home a place of comfort and peace for everyone who entered.

She is survived by her children: Daniel Jay Rider and wife Karen; James Louis Rider and wife Suzanne; and daughter Christy Rider Manuel and husband Colby. She also leaves behind her cherished grandchildren: Brennan Ardoin and Dr. Laura, Chelsey Hebert, Britney Rider and Diana, Garrett Manuel and Staci, Colton Manuel, and Ian Rider; along with five great-grandchildren.

Sherry is also survived by her brothers: Winston Guillory; Steve Guillory and wife Ola; and Randy Guillory and wife Jackie.

She was preceded in death by her husbands, Richard Glenn Rider and J.B. Smith; her son, Richard Paul Rider; her parents, Senia Guillory and Evelyn Guillory; and her sister, Joan Bergeron.

Visitation will be held at Ardoin's Funeral Home in Mamou on Friday, May 1, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m., with a Rosary to be prayed at 6:30 p.m. by Deacon Tim Donovan. Visitation will resume on Saturday, May 2, 2026, at 8:00 a.m. until time of service.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 2, 2026, at St. Peter's Catholic Church, with Father Casey Dugas officiating. Sherry will be laid to rest in St. Peter's Cemetery.

Sherry will be remembered for her loving heart, her strength, and the countless lives she touched through her care and compassion.