Sheryl L. Ricciardelli

Sheryl L. Ricciardelli, a beloved educator, compassionate advocate, and devoted family matriarch, passed away peacefully on May 29, 2026, in Glenmont, NY. Born on September 11, 1947, in Rochester, NY, Sheryl graced the world with a spirit that illuminated the lives of all who knew her. After an eight-year courageous battle with Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma, she surrounded herself with her loved ones as she departed this life, leaving behind a legacy woven with kindness, creativity, and unwavering love.

For 26 remarkable years, Sheryl shared her boundless passion for learning as an elementary school teacher within the Bethlehem Central School District. She paused her career for a decade to raise her children, nurturing their growth with the same care and devotion she brought to her classroom. Teaching was much more than a profession to Sheryl—it was her calling. Known for crafting vibrant units that seamlessly blended reading, writing, math, art, and song, she ignited a spark of curiosity and joy in every child she encountered. Even after retirement, Sheryl’s dedication to teaching endured. Her “Nana’s Pre-school” became a cherished haven where grandchildren blossomed under her guidance. Through planned art projects, lessons in reading, and even crocheting and knitting, Sheryl’s loving mentorship fostered not only knowledge but imagination and confidence. Once a teacher, always a teacher.

Sheryl’s kindness extended far beyond the walls of her classroom. An ardent advocate for those in need, she championed causes close to her heart with quiet strength and compassion. Her tireless support for the deaf community, inspired by her son Kevin, shone as a testament to her empathy and fierce loyalty. Within her church and throughout the community, Sheryl volunteered her time and talents, offering aid to women in shelters, the homeless, and patients in hospitals. 

Art and music flowed naturally through Sheryl’s days, expressions of her soul’s beauty and grace. She delighted in singing in the church choir, her voice a beacon of hope and joy. The piano keys sang beneath her fingers, and her canvases captured landscapes from cherished places she had traveled—each brushstroke a vivid memory.

Her family, the center of her world, reflects the depth of her love. Sheryl is survived by Michael Ricciardelli, her devoted husband; her children, Kevin Ricciardelli, Lisa Peters (Chuck), and Laura Ricciardelli (Marc Fruscio); and her treasured grandchildren, Lucas, Mia, Emma, and Noa. Together, they carry forward her legacy of kindness, strength, and faith.

The many cards and messages received from friends, colleagues, relatives, and loved ones tell a unanimous tale: Sheryl Ricciardelli will be forever remembered for her remarkable kindness. She possessed the rare gift of seeing the good in others, embracing them wholly despite their flaws—a lesson she imparted silently but profoundly to all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her gentle spirit remains a guiding light, inspiring those she left behind to live with greater understanding, compassion, and love.

A visitation honoring Sheryl’s life will be held on Wednesday, June 3, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Applebee Funeral Home, located at 403 Kenwood Ave, Delmar, NY 12054. Friends and family are invited to gather and celebrate the gift of her extraordinary life.

Sheryl's funeral service will be held 10:00am Thursday, June 4, 2026 at Bethlehem Lutheran Church, 85 Elm Ave. Delmar.

Interment will be in the Gerald B. H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery in Schuylerville on Friday, June 5th 2026 at a time to be announced.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society.  

Sheryl L. Ricciardelli’s story is one of passion, perseverance, and immense heart. Though her physical presence is no longer with us, the songs she sang, the lessons she taught, and the love she gave will forever resonate, echoing through the lives she so beautifully touched.