Sherry‘s journey to retirement

[Verse 1]
Sixteen, I lost my father dear
Charlie Adams, brave and clear
His service paved my early days
Sent me on to TSU's ways
Eighty-four I crossed that stage
Computer Science, world in a page
Momma Evie D looked on with pride
Godmother Ruth Cloud by her side

[Chorus]
Look how grace done carried me
Through every valley, every sea
From a whisper to a song
I was held when I was strong
Hallelujah, lift it high
Gratitude beneath the sky

[Verse 2]
Then the storm came rolling through
Twenty-one, didn't know what to do
Uncle Otto, Annie James stood true
Aunt Essie helped to see me through
Four long years to find my feet
Quiet prayers, soft and sweet

[Verse 3]
Valero kids, then Marshall's call
Marshall taught me how to dream
Thirty years and Austin called
Judge Joel Bennett gave me wings
Hometown friend who set me free
Spread my arms and learned to be

[Bridge]
August two thousand five, I wore the lace
With Elbert, love and grace
DPS, the Comptroller too
Fifteen years, I saw it through
Dell and CSC, a quiet while
Faith still wearing Sherry's smile

[Verse 4]
KIPP became my second home
Ten years there, not alone
Teaching hearts, those special starts
Babies left their fingerprints
Sherry, this your finale bow
Retirement's calling, take it now

[Chorus]
Look how grace done carried me
Through every valley, every sea
From a whisper to a song
I was held when I was strong
Hallelujah, lift it high
Gratitude beneath the sky

[Outro]
Four retired siblings, wisdom flows
"It ain't what you make, it's what you grow"
Answer only to the One above
Family, hope, and endless love
Sherry, rest your weary feet
Twenty twenty-six, the song is sweet