SULPHUR SPRINGS, Texas – The Sulphur Springs Independent School District is grieving the unexpected death of Sherry Sinclair, the widely admired principal of Douglass Early Childhood Learning Center, who passed away Thanksgiving morning.
In a heartfelt statement released Friday afternoon, Superintendent Deana Steeber shared the devastating news with the community:
SUPPORT THE FAMILY - GOD BLESS YOU
“We are heartbroken to announce that one of our own, Mrs. Sherry Sinclair, passed away on Thanksgiving morning. We are so very thankful for Mrs. Sinclair and the many lives she touched. Please join me in prayer as her husband, Shawn, and their children, Skylar and Sawyer, navigate this tremendous loss. Please pray for the Douglass ECLC family, as well.”
Sinclair, known for her warmth, dedication, and genuine love for young learners, had served as principal of the early childhood center for several years and previously taught in the district. Parents and colleagues described her as a leader who knew every child by name, championed playful learning, and created an environment where both students and staff felt truly cared for.
“She wasn’t just a principal; she was the heart of that school,” one parent wrote on social media. “Mrs. Sinclair made every little one feel special. This loss is unbearable.”
Dozens of similar tributes flooded community pages throughout the holiday weekend, with former students (now adults) recalling how Mrs. Sinclair had been their very first principal or kindergarten teacher and left a lasting impact.
District officials have not released details surrounding the cause of death out of respect for the family’s privacy during this difficult time. Grief counseling will be made available to Douglass ECLC students and staff when classes resume next week.
The Sinclair family has requested privacy as they grieve, but a memorial fund in Sherry Sinclair’s name is expected to be announced soon to support early childhood education initiatives she passionately championed.
Superintendent Steeber closed her message by saying, “Mrs. Sinclair’s light will continue to shine through the countless children and families she inspired. She will be deeply missed but never forgotten.”