Sheri Lynne Johnston

Sheri Lynne Johnston (Keller) of Hansen, Idaho, died peacefully at home on Sunday, January 5, 2025, with her partner Scott Keller, friend Tanja Kroeker, and loyal dog Bowe at her side. The toughest person that any of us ever knew went thirteen years and countless rounds against ovarian cancer, before wrapping up a life well-lived on her terms. 

Sheri was born to Billy Lee Johnston and Sharon Rose (Popplewell) Johnston in Jerome, Idaho on November 17, 1971. Sheri and her older brother Mark grew up on “the acreage” on the outskirts of Buhl, Idaho, where they enjoyed the country life of roaming outdoors, hunting, fishing, training dogs, trying to train cats, spending time with friends on the Snake River, and generally learning how to be good people.

Sheri attended Buhl High School, graduating in 1990. She was famous for coming home with new, often self-performed, ear piercings. Upon graduation, Sheri worked at US Bank, serving as a part-time Saturday teller, and eventually as a supervisor. After experiencing one too many bank robberies, she decided that it was time for a change, and completed the CSI Dental Assistant program in 1998-1999. Sheri then worked her entire career in the dental field, from July 1999 through June 2024, with Dr. Timothy E. Thompson, in the roles of dental assistant and office manager. The family is eternally grateful to Dr. T for the way that he provided medical benefits for his employees, and afforded flexibility for the many cancer treatments that Sheri underwent.

In December 2001, Sheri found her best friend, the love of her life, and her rock, Scott Keller. The pair enjoyed golfing and hunting together, going to casinos, and travelling the car show circuit on summer weekends. Sheri was always quick to smile and laugh, and quick to be kind. She loved spending time with family and friends, where her spunk, wit, and caring helped everyone to feel cherished and embraced.

One of Sheri’s lifelong joys was being around animals. Happy and playful dogs always made her smile. Sheri devoted countless evenings and weekends volunteering with the Friends Furever Animal Rescue from 2010-2023. She took the lead on organizing the golf tournament fundraisers, and in procuring the custom t-shirts and sweatshirts sold by the rescue.

Sheri is preceded in death by her father, Bill Johnston; and her aunt, Karen Graves; as well as numerous extended family members, and beloved pets, especially Rocky and Harley.

Sheri is survived by her partner, Scott Keller; her dog, Bowe; mother, Sharon Johnston; father-figure, Russ Lively; brother, Mark Johnston (Heidi Adams); stepsons, Christopher Keller and Jason (Ashlee) Keller; grandchildren, Payton and Porter Keller; nieces Ashley and Sarah Johnston and Ivy and Cassie Campbell; nephews Dominique Johnston and Sebastien Irigoyen; and many dear extended family members.

Hospice care was provided by Hospice Visions, and cremation services were provided by Rosenau Funeral Home. Per Sheri’s wishes, there will not be a funeral or memorial. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Friends Furever Animal Rescue. Donations can be made at any ICCU branch, through PayPal or Venmo (@FFAR1 (4459)), at friendsfureveranimalrescue.com, or by mail to Friends Furever Animal Rescue 218 11th Ave East, Jerome ID 83338.