Sherma Leanor Jillson

Sherma Leanor Jillson, age 84, passed away peacefully in Layton, Utah.

She was born on August 29, 1941, in Vernal, Utah, to Lola Lenora Campbell LeFevre and Harold Frank DeYoung. Sherma grew up in Vernal and later in Salt Lake City, Utah.

In 1957, she married Wendell Madsen in Salt Lake City. Together they raised their three children in Washington Terrace, Utah: Carrie Nelson, Dena Decaria (Doug), and Jeffery J. Madsen (Amy). Sherma and Wendell were both actively involved in the Jaycees and Jayceettes, where they played an important role in planning and supporting many community events in Washington Terrace. Their dedication to community service reflected their commitment to giving back and staying connected. They also shared a love of square dancing and were known as the couple everyone stopped to watch. Sherma designed and sewed their matching outfits, making them unforgettable on the dance floor. Sherma and Wendell later divorced; Wendell preceded her in death.

Sherma later married Victor Jillson, who also preceded her in death, and gained stepchildren Debbie Archer (Mark) and Angie Steiniger.

Sherma worked in the medical field for many years, including dentistry, urology, and obstetrics, where her care and dedication were valued. She later left the medical profession to live in Okinawa, Japan, for two years. While there, Sherma and Vic learned to scuba dive, beginning a passion that would shape the next chapter of their lives. Upon returning home, they opened a scuba shop, which gave them the opportunity to travel the world and dive in extraordinary places. They eventually sold the business and enjoyed a comfortable retirement.

During retirement, Sherma discovered a creative passion for making video tributes, transforming customers’ photographs into meaningful videos set to music — long before it became popular.

Sherma was a devoted mother and grandmother who introduced her children to camping, hunting, scuba diving, and community involvement. She was also an exceptional seamstress, lovingly creating beautiful and festive clothing for her children for every holiday.

She is survived by 17 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.

Sherma was preceded in death by her parents, her brother Dennis Raymond DeYoung, and her spouses Wendell Madsen and Victor Jillson.

In 2019, Sherma began her courageous battle with lung cancer. Her passing was peaceful and quick.

The family extends a heartfelt thank you to the hospice team at Community Nursing Services, who truly became Sherma’s friends and whom she looked forward to seeing each day. Deep gratitude is also extended to Sherma’s neighbors, family, and friends for their prayers, meals, and unwavering support during this time. Your kindness was a great comfort.

A graveside service will be announced in the spring.

Sherma’s family finds comfort in the promise of God’s grace and the hope of eternal life. Though she will be deeply missed, they trust that she is now at peace, reunited with loved ones, and resting in the loving presence of her Savior.

Services entrusted to Lindquist's Layton Mortuary.