Ronald "Ronnie" F. Sherry

ALBANY — Ronald “Ronnie” F. Sherry, 83, passed away peacefully at Albany Medical Center on January 15, 2026.

Born in Albany, New York, Ronnie was the son of the late Edward and Edna Sherry. He was predeceased by his brother, Edward J. Sherry Jr.; his uncle, William F. Sherry; and his aunt, Virginia Zaloga Sherry.

Ronnie proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. Upon returning home, he pursued his passion for cooking and hospitality, beginning a lifelong career in the restaurant business.

In 1971, Ronnie joined the Charcoal Pit Restaurant on Central Avenue, owned by Charles (“Chuck”) and Annie Mendel. What began as a job quickly grew into a lifelong bond. The Charcoal Pit was a family-run restaurant, and Ronnie became an inseparable part of both the business and the Mendel family.

In 1987, Ronnie purchased the Charcoal Pit and, that same year, began living with the Mendel family—an arrangement that continued for the remainder of his life and reflected the deep love, trust, and loyalty they shared. Known affectionately as “Chef,” Ronnie was remembered for his humor and his habit of giving nicknames, a small tradition that made customers and friends feel recognized and at home.

Ronnie continued operating the Charcoal Pit until approximately 1992, after which he sold the restaurant and joined the Mendel family’s catering business, remaining closely involved with the family he had long considered his own.

Ronnie is survived by his son, Michael (Carol) Sherry; his beloved grandsons, Michael and Matthew; and Michael’s half-siblings, Frank, Renee, and Christopher Horn, all of whom he considered family. He is also survived by Michael Shinas, a cherished member of the Mendel family to whom he was especially close.

Ronnie will be remembered for his generosity of spirit, his quiet loyalty, and the countless lives he touched through friendship, food, and kindness.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend Ronnie’s funeral services on Monday, January 26, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at New Comer Cremations & Funerals, 343 New Karner Road, Colonie, NY 12205. Interment will follow at Our Lady of Angels Cemetery, Colonie.