Sherry Lee Bellis (Bredenkamp), 76, of McCool Junction, Nebraska, passed away on August 10, 2026 at Hearthstone in York, Nebraska. Sherry was born on September 29, 1949, in York, Nebraska, to Keith and Jeanette (Bassler) Bredenkamp. She grew up in the McCool Junction area and remained deeply rooted in the community she loved throughout her life.
On October 6, 1968, Sherry married the love of her life, Jack Bellis, at First Lutheran Church in McCool Junction. Together they shared 57 years of marriage, building a home centered on faith, family, and hard work before Jack’s passing.
Sherry worked in several secretarial positions throughout her life and also spent time as an in-home daycare provider. However, the role she treasured most was that of homemaker. She took great pride in caring for her family, tending her flower and vegetable gardens, and preparing meals that brought everyone together around the table.
A lifelong member of First Lutheran Church in McCool Junction, Sherry’s faith remained an important part of her life. She found joy in serving her church and the community she loved.
Above all else, Sherry loved her family. She was her children’s biggest supporter and a devoted grandmother who proudly cheered on every milestone, activity, and accomplishment of her grandchildren. Her love for her family was steadfast, and the memories created through holidays, family meals and time spent together will continue to be cherished.
Sherry is survived by her children, Drew (Abbey) Bellis of McCool Junction; Heather (Dave) Stahr of York; and Todd (Christine) Bellis of Aurora; her grandchildren, Garrett, Dane and Beiker Bellis and Brodie, Teigin, Cambil Peterson; Cole and Ian Stahr; Kalin (Jes) Moya and Zoe Barnes; and her great-grandson, Asher Stahr. She is also survived by her sister, Ann (Brian) Sipma of Corydon, Iowa; along with many nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Jack Bellis; her parents, Keith and Jeanette Bredenkamp; and her brother, Scott Bredenkamp.
The family is grateful for the compassionate care Sherry received from the staff at Hearthstone and York General Dialysis Center and all who cared for her during her final years.
A funeral service celebrating Sherry’s life will be held at First Lutheran Church in McCool Junction, NE on Thursday, August 13, 2026 at 10:00 am. Interment will follow at Pleasant Ridge Cemetery, southeast of McCool Junction. Visitation will be from 1-8 p.m., Wednesday, August 12, 2026 with family greeting friends from 5:30-7:00 pm that evening, all at Metz Mortuary. Memorials may be directed to the First Lutheran Church of McCool.