Sherlia A. Jeffers

Sherlia was born on July 13th, 1935, in LaFarge, Wisconsin, to Lottie and Theodore "Buck" Rolfe. Just six months later, Heaven called her mother Lottie home. In a time of grief and great need, her father turned to Arthur and Mettie Alvord for help. With open hearts, they welcomed Sherlia into their home and raised her with strength, kindness, and love over the next 18 years.

As a young woman, Sherlia met a handsome young man named Leslie Richard Gillett, and the two fell deeply in love. Their bond grew into a lifelong connection, and they were soon married. Together, they built a family rooted in love, raising four children: two daughters, Diana Parker and Janet Rath, and a set of twin sons, Donald and Daniel Gillett.

Though life's path led them to divorce, Sherlia and Leslie remained close friends and devoted co-parents. Their bond of respect and commitment to family never wavered. Then, unexpectedly, tragedy struck-Leslie passed away at the young age of 42, leaving Sherlia to raise their children on her own. With courage, grace, and unwavering love, she stepped forward and became both mother and father, anchoring her family through the storms of life. Through the years, no matter how hard times got, Sherlia always found a way-to keep her children fed, clothed, and cared for. She worked tirelessly to fill their needs, never once letting them go without love or guidance.

One by one, her children grew up and began lives of their own, carrying with them the strength and values she had instilled in them. It was around this time that Sherlia met a hard-working, kindhearted man named Clarence Jeffers, who had two daughters of his own, Linda Thomas and Vicky Van Blarcom. Their hearts connected, and a new chapter began-blending families, building love, and embracing life's second chances together.

They soon married, and over the next 37 years, Sherlia and Clarence ran Jeffers Truck Center in LaFarge, working side by side. During the week, they poured their energy into the business, and on weekends, they escaped to the river in their 5th wheel, camping and fishing, soaking in the peace and simplicity of those treasured moments.

And when she could talk Clarence into it, they'd make a quick detour to indulge in Sherlia's second favorite pastime-the casino. While she joyfully wrestled with the one-armed bandits, Clarence was usually content to nap in the truck, patiently waiting for his bride to get her fill of excitement.

But once again, tragedy struck-Clarence was called to Heaven, leaving Sherlia to carry on without the love of her later years. Though her heart broke again, her strength never faltered.

As time passed, the roles began to reverse. It was now time for the family to take care of Mom, Auntie, Grandmother, Great-Grandmother, and Great-Great-Grandmother. Surrounded by love, Sherlia passed peacefully in her sleep on June 16th, 2025.

Sherlia is survived by her three children: Janet Rath of LaFarge, Wisconsin, Donald (Miranda) Gillett of Reedsburg, Wisconsin, and her favorite child, Daniel (Nicky) Gillett of Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin.

She is also lovingly remembered by her two stepdaughters: Linda (Rick) Thomas of Traverse, Florida, and Vicky (Tim) Van Blarcom of Viroqua, Wisconsin.

In addition, she leaves behind many Nieces and Nephews, Grandchildren, Great-Grandchildren, Great-Great-Grandchildren, who will carry her memory in their hearts forever.

Preceded in death by her parents Lottie and Theodore (Buck) Rolfe, Stepmother Jenny Rolfe, Stepfather Arthur Alvord, Granddaughter Mitchelle Gillett, Former husband Leslie Gillett, Stepmother Mettie Alvord, Brother Merrill Rolfe, Stepgrandson Michael Thomas, Sister Thelma Connelly, Daughter Diana Parker, Husband Clarence Jeffers.

Sherlia leaves behind a legacy of strength, love, and humor. Whether she was gathering family around the table, camping by the river, or spinning the reels at her favorite casino, she lived life fully and on her own terms. Her spirit lives on in every story shared, every hug passed down, and every memory held close.

Lovingly remembered and forever missed,

by her three children,

Janet, Donald, and Daniel.

Family will be holding A Celebration of Life on Friday, June 27, 2025, at 11 a.m. at the LaFarge Free Methodist Church with Pastor Mark Phillips officiating.  A visitation will be held from 9 a.m. until time of service.  Burial will take place in the Bear Creek Cemetery. 

Roth Family Cremation Center and Funeral Services is assisting the family.  

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