It is with deep sorrow that we announce the death of our mother, Cheryl Lynn Smith, 75, who left us unexpectedly but peacefully on September 21, 2024, after a beautifully lived life, full of love, laughter, and resilience.
Cheryl was a wonderful mother who was always there when we needed her the most, offering support, wisdom, and love in abundance. A friend to many, leaving behind a legacy of kindness and strength. She was predeceased by her parents, Harold and Loraine Englet, her brother, Bruce Englet, and daughter Little Cheryl. Cheryl is survived by her loving children, Ryan Smith (Christina), Kyle Smith (Emily), Kierstin McDowell (previously Smith); 11 grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, sisters Joni Kuhlman (George), and Gini Gomez (Greg), many nephews, along with countless friends and family who felt her warmth and generosity.
Born on March 22, 1949, Cheryl was a cherished community member and will be remembered for her vibrant participation in local activities. Cheryl graduated from West Linn High School in 1967. She went on to have a long career in banking ending in her retirement in 2015. Her enthusiasm for community service was evident through her active involvement with the Heart & Soul Hood to Coast Team in 1991 and 1992, supporting the arts as a volunteer usher with Portland Center for the Performing Arts, designing posters for the Clackamas County Fair, and her involvement with the Kiwanis Club. Cheryl was a two-time cancer survivor. Through her cancer journey, she taught those around her what it looks like to live bravely and always with joy and a smile.
Cheryl devoted countless hours supporting her children and grandchildren, providing advice and support through their numerous sports and hobbies. She was a devoted sports fan who cheered on her favorite local football teams, the Ducks and the Beavers every Saturday. Cheryl was always willing to lend an ear or a hand to any family member or friend to provide advice, discuss a problem, or help complete a project. In her spare time, Cheryl loved growing and maintaining her garden, completing jigsaw puzzles, and sewing fun projects. Cheryl relished any opportunity to spoil her loved ones and especially loved spending precious moments with her grandchildren. She was an exemplary mother figure, human being and embodied the best qualities: unconditional love, strength of spirit, and an unending generosity that could be seen in her care for her family and friends. She touched so many lives in the 75 years she was on this earth and the world is a little less bright without her. She will be deeply missed.
We will celebrate Cheryl's life at one o'clock in the afternoon of November 23, 2024, in the Gregory Forum on the Oregon City Campus of Clackamas Community College, 19600 Molalla Avenue Oregon City, Oregon 97045. We invite all who knew her to join us in remembering a remarkable woman. Instead of flowers, you may donate to Doernbecher Children's Hospital in her memory.