Sherman Stakely Sr. was born on May 18, 1934 to the late Ruth Sparks-Stakely (Richardson) and William Stakely in Tuskegee, Alabama where one sibling, Helen Stakely-Tate preceded him in death.  Sherman was blessed with a 2^nd Father, Lonnie Richardson (deceased) who raised and loved him dearly.  Sherman along with his sibling were reared in the church as he confessed Christ at an early age.

Mr. Stakely attended school in Tuskegee, Alabama until the family moved to Cleveland, Ohio.  He then attended Cleveland Public Schools. While attending Thomas Edison High School, Mr. Stakely and friends would play pick-up games of Basketball and Baseball. In his early thirties, Sherman participated in a Cleveland’s baseball Men’s League where he played for three seasons.

Over 40 years, retiring in the year of 2000, Sherman loved his career as a Truck Driver. He would often share stories of his over the road travels.  Working for several Trucking Companies such as:  R&L Trucking, Dworkin Trucking Co., and Campbell Trucking Co. While working as a Truck Driver for B&M Products Manufacturing Company, Mr. Stakely met his wife, Helen Moore-Stakely of 49 years.  Mrs. Stakely was the Office Bookkeeper/payroll for B&M Products.   Mr. Stakely always said that after preparing a steak dinner for Momma it was a forever sealed deal because he became the main Cook of the family.

Yes, Mr. Stakely was known for his tasty meals, he became the guru of grilling, frying and baking Fish, Steak, Ribs and Chicken.  One dish in particular, was his Oxtail Soup and hot water corn-bread, was the best ever!  Family Gatherings, Picnics and at home daily meals Sherman was in the kitchen doing his thing.  He extended tasty foods to riders on family bus tour trips to Atlantic City and Wheeling Dog Track as he received many compliments of the foods he prepared.  Mr. Stakely became well respected and honored by the East Tech Alumni Association as he prepared box meals for their fundraisers trips as well.

Sherman was best known for his comedic nature through responses and comments, gruff and rough disposition, knowledgeable in politics and history, was abreast of current events (world and Local), he also had a militant mentality, most of all he represented love and acted as a protector of family. Mr. Stakely was fondly called Pops, Granddaddy, Uncle Sherman, nickname “Stush” was given to him by friends.

Mrs. Stakely, Mr. Stakely Son, Melvin Stakely Sr. and Daughter, Michelle Wallace both preceded him in death.

Leaves to mourn: Mr. Stakely was the proud father of Sherman Stakely Jr. (Harriett), Greta Stakely-Humphrey (Joseph) and Pamela Ficklin-Cumba (Julio). Grandchildren Melvin Stakely Jr., Joshua Humphrey (Olivia), Justine Humphrey, Jamel Rahkeera (Lawanda), Jermaine Humphrey, Jason Humphrey, Michael Wallace, Jermaine Wallace, Nazir Richardson and Zaire Richardson, (10) Great-Grand Children, Sister In-laws, Carol Moore-Campbell (James) and Valerie Moore-Chilkcutt, a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins.