SHERRY SIMPSON (1958-2026)
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Long-time Goodman Theatre electrician and light board operator, Sherry Simpson, passed away on April 26 at the age of 67. Sherry spent decades working at the Goodman on both the Albert and Owen stages and was a proud member of IATSE 2. Outside of the Goodman, she worked as a stage manager or production manager for various shows and festivals, including Gospel Fest, Africa Fest, the Black Rodeo and Muntu Dance Theatre.
Born in Chicago on August 29, 1958 to Rosie Simpson and Walter Stanley, Sherry graduated high school from Kenwood Academy, which is where her love of theatre and the arts blossomed. She explored tap dancing and went to modeling and acting school. Next, she received an associate’s degree from Kennedy King College, followed by a Bachelor of Science degree in theatre. Early on, she worked onstage and backstage for many shows with producer and singer Oscar Brown Jr., who was an early mentor. Eventually, she realized she preferred being backstage and working on the technical aspects of shows and started focusing her skills on theatre lighting. Sherry is survived by her mother; sister Verlia Thomas; brothers Robert Simpson, Clifton Simpson (Cynthia Cahee-Simpson) and Walter Stanley (Ellie), as well as nieces, nephews, and great nieces and nephews. |