In Remembrance of Sharon “Sherry” Gail Harris
March 13, 1938 - June 2, 2025
Sherry Harris, age 87, passed away peacefully on June 2, 2025, in Long Beach, California, where she had resided for the past seven years.
Born in 1938, Sherry was a proud graduate of Mark Keppel High School, class of 1956. A talented musician, she played clarinet in the school band and had the honor of marching in the famed Rose Parade – a memory she fondly recounted throughout her life.
Sherry dedicated over 50 years of her career to the funeral industry, compassionately guiding families through some of life’s most difficult moments. As a cemetery and mortuary manager, she was known for her grace, professionalism and unwavering kindness.
Beyond her career, Sherry was the epitome of class and style. She was an avid reader and cherished her time with her book club. A lifelong lover of travel and museums, she explored the world with curiosity and joy – though her greatest happiness was always found at home, surrounded by those she loved.
Sherry leaves behind a loving family who will forever cherish her memory:
Her children Steve, Susie and Lynn; her daughter-in-law Gemma; her granddaughter Brianna, grandson-in-law Chaz and two great-grandchildren, Zane and Aiden. She is also survived by her beloved grand-dog, Bullet, who rarely left her side.
Known for her sharp wit, playful sense of humor, and captivating stories, Sherry was the heart of her family – a true Matriarch whose warmth, wisdom, and laughter will be missed by all who knew and loved her.
Visitation will be on Saturday, June 21, 2025 from 4pm-7pm at Luyben Dilday Mortuary in Long Beach.
A Celebration of Life Luncheon will held on Sunday, June 22, 2025, Noon to 3pm at the Long Beach Yacht Club, 6201 Appian Way, Long Beach 90803. Please RSVP for the Celebration of Life via text message to Lynn at (310)880-4099 or Susie at (562)822-1100 by Monday June 16th.
Please note: The Regatta races are happening and parking is difficult.
So, please park in the parking lot at Schooner or Later or West Marine at 241 N. Marina Dr., Long Beach and walk to the dock for a pontoon ride to the LB Yacht Club. Signs will be posted. Pontoon will be available 1130am until 3:30pm.
Private interment will in Forest Lawn Memorial Park in Cathedral City.
In Remembrance of Homer Alba
August 10, 1945 - May 14, 2025
It is with profound sadness that we share the news of the passing of Homer Alba, a cherished member of our Hollywood Forever family. Homer recently commemorated an impressive 38 years with us, serving as our Senior Vice President and Vice President Emeritus. Despite his official retirement status, he remained actively involved, drawing from a wellspring of love for both our cemetery and the profession he dedicated his life to.
Homer’s unwavering commitment extended beyond Hollywood Forever; he played an integral role in various professional associations that bolster our industry. His leadership was evident as he held the esteemed position of President for both the Los Angeles County Funeral Directors Association and the California Funeral Directors Association. Additionally, he was a proactive member of the Cemetery and Mortuary Association of California, continually advocating for industry standards and practices.
A proud alumnus of UCLA, where he majored in English Literature, Homer’s passion for literature was palpable. His poetic spirit and insightful knowledge of classic literary works manifested in his numerous op-eds published in the LA Times, reflecting his literary talent and keen perspective on life.
More than just a colleague, Homer was a devoted father, uncle, partner, leader, Vietnam veteran, world traveler, and mentor to so many. His ability to inspire trust and impart wisdom enriched our lives and the lives of everyone he touched. The depth of our grief mirrors the immense love and gratitude we hold for him, and we feel fortunate to have had the privilege of knowing him.
In Remembrance of Charles Thorson
September 29, 1955 - April 26, 2025
“A life well lived is the most exquisite work of art. Remembering one whose journey was a masterpiece”
It is with great sadness that we share the passing of past OCFDA president and board member Charlie Thorson.
Charlie was a seasoned figure in the mortuary industry. He was well known, tremendously loved and wore many hats throughout his career.
He will be greatly missed.
In Remembrance of Joshua Morphis, beloved musician
March 21, 1984 – January 21, 2025
Josh’s incredible musical talents were a gift to so many, especially those of us in the funeral industry. Whether playing a loved one’s favorite song or composing an original melody, his impact was tremendous, bringing joy and comfort to countless grieving families.
Josh was a beloved son, brother, uncle, and friend. He will be greatly missed.
In Remembrance of Tom Garrison our faithful casket representative
February 4, 1945 - January 17, 2025
Thomas Keith Garrison was born to Lyman and Mary Garrison in Fort Wayne Indiana on February 4th, 1945. He passed away in his sleep, at home in Oceanside, California on January 17, 2025, he was 79 years old just short of 80.
Tom was the third son to Lyman and Mary, he had two older brothers, Jerry and Don.
Tom went to Central High school and graduated in 1963.
He was hired by the Indiana State police and was their “Public Information officer” most of his tenure. He had the opportunity to escort numerus stars of which “Roy Roger and Dales Evans, Red Skelton and Donny and Marie Osmond were just a few. He was with the State Police for 10 years.
He met the love of his life, Glenda Farney at the “South Town Mall” They courted a short time, married in June of 1976 and moved to Oceanside CA.
He worked for Messenger Corporation Auburn Indiana, for a short time and then was hired by Batesville Casket Company in Batesville, Indiana.
Tom was very well known by many of the funeral homes throughout California. He was an excellent host at the holidays.
He was a vital part of the Steam Engine Museum in Vista, California and served on the board and as President. He had and enjoyed his tractor collection.
Tom enjoyed scuba diving. His favorite diving adventure was diving, “The Wall” in the Caymen Islands with Larry Caitlin, his dive buddy.
He enjoyed traveling, motorcycles, the SAS shooting club, good food, his 2 beardies and his golden doodle and especially good friends.
He is survived by his wife Glenda, his brother Jerry, son Tom, Daughters, Cami and Jena, 8 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren.
Memorial service will be held, February 21, 2025, at 11:30 in the Pacific room at Eternal Hills Mortuary, 1999 El Camino Real, Oceanside California.
In Remembrance of Timothy James Beckley, son of OCFDA Past President, Todd Beckley
