It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Katherine Elizabeth (Hoggard) Sherrer, affectionately known to all as Katy, who passed away peacefully on July 22, 2026, at her home, surrounded by the love of her family. Born on March 15, 1946, in Springfield, Missouri, to the late Thomas W. Hoggard and Ella K. (Coberly) Hoggard, Katy lived a life overflowing with love, compassion, and dedication to those around her.

Katy was a beacon of light in the lives she touched, known for her warmth, kindness, and unwavering care for others. Her journey began at Miller High School, where she laid the foundation for a lifetime of learning and service. Her career at Zenith Electronics spanned more than two decades, but it was her work as a geriatric care nurse that truly defined her calling. She cared for her patients with grace, dignity, and compassion until retiring to care for her aging father.

On July 5, 1998, Katy married the love of her life, Charlie W. Sherrer. Together they built a home filled with love, laughter, and mutual respect, cherishing time spent at their beloved “lake place.” Although Charlie predeceased her, their love story remains a testament to enduring partnership and devotion.

She was a dedicated member of the Paris Springs United Methodist Church and devoted herself to numerous charitable causes, including the Rare Breed homeless youth center, Harmony House, Ozarks Food Harvest, VFW, The Hope Center in Mt. Vernon, and several local food pantries. Her dedication to her community was matched only by the love she had for her family and friends.

Katy is survived by her son, Ron (Mimi) Suter of Englewood, Florida, her daughter, Lynette (Joe) Myers of Niangua, Missouri, her brother Chuck Hoggard and sister Sally Toups of Ash Grove, her dearest friend, Debbie Tucker; and a host of treasured grandchildren, extended family members, and friends. She was predeceased by her parents, her son Tom Suter, her husband Charlie, and her brothers Robert and J. Tom Hoggard. Katy leaves behind a vast network of extended family and friends whose lives she enriched with her infectious laughter and generous spirit.

Her life was a tapestry woven with simple pleasures: nurturing her beloved flowers, counting the days until spring, feeding the birds and squirrels, hosting lively gatherings, and dancing with her beloved Charlie. She was a loyal fan of the Kansas City Chiefs and cherished playing dominos into the early hours and getting together with her unforgettable “Love and Laughter Sunshine Ladies.”

Katy’s legacy is one of love and kindness. She possessed a remarkable gift for seeing the good in everyone, offering help without hesitation, and sharing hard truths when necessary. Her passing leaves a void that cannot be filled, yet her spirit lives on in the countless lives she touched.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, August 8, 2026, at Greenlawn North, 3506 N. National Avenue, Springfield, Missouri. Visitation will begin at 1:00 p.m., followed by the Celebration of Life at 2:00 p.m. In keeping with Katy’s final wish, the family warmly encourages everyone attending to wear their favorite colors in celebration of her life. She wanted her memorial to be a reflection of the joy, love, and laughter she shared with others—a celebration of a life well lived rather than a time of mourning. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to a charity of your choice in her memory.

The family extends their deepest gratitude to Katy’s village of friends, whose love and support brought joy to her life and comfort in her final days, and to the compassionate team at Good Shepherd Hospice of Springfield for their exceptional care.

Katy’s greatest legacy is not found in the things she owned, but in the love she freely gave. She leaves behind a family who adored her, friends who were blessed by her kindness, and a community made better because she was part of it. Though she will be deeply missed, her compassion, generosity, and unwavering love will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew her. May her memory forever be a blessing.