Cheryl Jeanne Smith

In Loving Memory of Cheryl Jeanne Smith
February 16, 1947 – July 15, 2025

Cheryl Jeanne Smith, age 78, went home to be with her Lord and Savior on Tuesday, July 15, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family.

A devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend, Cheryl’s life was marked by faith, grace, and deep compassion for others. Her legacy is one of unwavering love—for God, her family, and every soul who crossed her path.

She is survived by her children: Earl “Smitty” Smith; Jodi Keefer and her husband Glen Keefer; and Bryan Smith and his wife Dawn Smith. She was a cherished grandmother to Caleb Keefer, Kelsey Allen with her husband Wyatt, Ethen Smith, Payton Smith, and Elijah Smith, and a proud great-grandmother to Piper Allen.

Cheryl is also lovingly remembered by her siblings and their spouses: Michael and Lisa DeGroat, Stephan and Jane DeGroat, Andre and Erica DeGroat, and Julie and Sam Litzler. She leaves behind many nieces and nephews who held a special place in her heart.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Earl Smith Jr.; her parents, Gilbert and Lucille DeGroat; her sister, Barbara DeGroat; and her grandsons, Stone and Noah Smith.

Cheryl retired from Frontier Communications, where she worked with diligence and integrity. But her greatest calling was serving Jesus Christ, whom she followed faithfully, every day. She gave generously of her time and energy to The Church, always willing to help wherever needed. She raised her children to love and serve the Lord, and she lived out her faith through quiet acts of service and deep love for others.

She found joy in life’s simple pleasures—sharing good food, laughing with loved ones, and going on vacations with her family. Cheryl’s warmth, hospitality, and steadfast presence will be missed more than words can express.

A celebration of Cheryl’s life will be held on Saturday, July 19, 2025, at Calvary Faith Center in Wendell, with visitation from 1:00–2:00 p.m. and the memorial service beginning at 2:00 p.m. A brief graveside gathering will follow at Gethsemane Memorial Gardens in Zebulon.

Though our hearts are heavy, we rejoice in knowing Cheryl now rests in the presence of her Savior. Her life was a beautiful testimony of love, faith, and devotion—and her legacy will live on in all who knew her.

Arrangements are with Strickland Funeral Home & Crematory, 211 W. 3^rd Street, Wendell, NC 27591. www.stricklandfuneral.com