Sherman Sinclair Zolicoffer

Sherman Sinclair Zolicoffer was welcomed into this world on August 18^th, 1941, in Kosciusko, MS to Albert Zolicoffer and Mary Dodd who preceded him in death. Sherman spent a large portion of his childhood in Detroit, MI which he credits for shaping much of his grit, outlook on life and how he lived. The family later moved back to Kosciusko where Sherman graduated from Tipton High School. There, he was a decorated football player earning all- state honors and an athletic scholarship to Jackson State University at a time when they were one of the best football programs in the country.

Sherman left Jackson and moved to Milwaukee, WI with the love and assistance from his father’s siblings which he always mentioned and appreciated. Shortly after his move he was drafted into the Army and fought in the Vietnam War. He served for close to 2 years before he was wounded and honorably discharged. This experience changed Sherman and shaped how he would live his life moving forward. He would always mention “everything after the war was a bonus” because he didn’t know if he would live to make it out of the jungles of Vietnam.

Upon his return home Sherman lived life with a true vigor and made sure he did all the things he wanted and always on his terms. Sherman who was affectionately known across Milwaukee as “Zollie” was a commandeering soul that left a memorable experience every time you saw him. Sherman wore many hats and made himself a beloved part of this community. Sherman obtained a Bachelor of Arts Degree from the University of Wisconsin Milwaukee, became a Master Barber, Certified Cosmetologist, Certified Bartender, and a staple in the Post Office for 20+ years. Sherman was a block captain for Neighborhood Watch and was recognized by the Milwaukee Fire Department for his heroics helping to save his neighbors in a house fire. Sherman never became a certified master chef, but you could not tell him that. He cooked regularly and well just about anything that you could ask, but his favorite meals to make and eat was soul food. He used this gift regularly and would feed many people his great meals.

As mentioned before Sherman was a decorated athlete early in his life and that did not change in adulthood. Upon his return to Milwaukee, he became a member of the Racine Raiders Semi Pro Football organization where he excelled as a running back, tight end, and defensive back. So much so that he is honored as a Hall of Fame member by the organization. The Racine Raiders were not the only Raiders he loved; his favorite team was the Oakland Raiders. Sherman would regularly mention he even went to California for an open tryout with the team. Sherman loved the Packers as well and would watch regularly every Sunday. Football was not his only love as he was also an avid runner. He once won the coveted Al’s Run 5k event and was featured in the Milwaukee Journal for the accomplishment. Sherman ran daily and could be seen around the city or close to Lake Michigan running miles. He kept active late in life and would walk regularly at Washington high school’s track. There he formed a group, calling the “The Washington H.S. Joggers.

Sherman knew who his Lord and Savior was from an early age and kept that belief throughout his life. He went on to become a member of Community Baptist Church of Greater Milwaukee where he served for 30+ years. He always made sure to lend a helping hand and worked in the church as a Deacon, Sunday school teacher, Security, and anything else they may have needed at a moment’s notice. Working for and in the church was something he took great pride in and loved his church family.

Sherman passed away peacefully on November 14^th, 2024. Sherman leaves to cherish his memory his children Michael Zolicoffer (Oklahoma) and Jajuan Zolicoffer (Milwaukee) with continued love through his bonus children Anthony, Bryant and Stephanie Sprewer (Milwaukee, WI), Jamaal Eddie (Memphis, TN). Siblings John L. Zollicoffer (Kosciusko, MS) Georgia Winters (Texas), Jimmy Joe Nash (Massachusetts), Beatrice Woods (Tennessee), Lillie Wright (Ohio), and Marcia Nash (Ohio)

The love for him will be cherished by a plethora of other family, friends, and extended family.

Visitation at Community Baptist Church of Greater Milwaukee, 2249 North Sherman Boulevard, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53208 on Saturday, November 30, 2024 from 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM. Service 12:00 PM.

To send flowers to the family or place a tree in memory of Sherman Sinclair Zolicoffer, please visit our Tribute Store.