Cheryl Ann Richmond, a beloved matriarch whose love and dedication to her family was the cornerstone of her life, passed away on July 6, 2024, surrounded by her cherished loved ones after a courageous battle with cancer. Born on September 26, 1944, in San Francisco, Cheryl moved with her family to Santa Clara in 1948, where she spent her formative years. Cheryl was the treasured daughter of Lorrean and Frances Pereira and grew up alongside her siblings Jerry Pereira, Larry Pereira, Gail Waits, and Donna Reynolds.
She attended St. Clare’s Catholic School and Santa Clara High School, graduating in 1962. On January 30, 1965, she married the love of her life, Ralph Howard Richmond Jr.
, and together they built a beautiful family with three children, Lori, Ralph III, and Nicole Richmond. A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Cheryl’s heart was always with her family. She is survived by her three children, twelve grandchildren, and eighteen great-grandchildren, each of whom brought immense joy to her life.
Cheryl’s home was a haven of love, laughter, and warm memories, a place where her nurturing spirit and boundless affection could always be felt. Cheryl’s career included positions at Pacific Bell and Fred Meyer, but her true passion was her family. She retired to dedicate more time to her children, traveling across Oregon for their Gold Coast Swim Team swim meets and working alongside her husband and in-laws at Ireland's Rustic Lodges in Gold Beach, Oregon.
Cheryl was also a cherished volunteer in the Sumner School Library, where she inspired many children to find a love for reading and served as the homeroom Mom. Her commitment to the community extended to her roles as a leader for the Girl Scouts, Blue Birds, and the Lioness Club. Cheryl’s adventurous spirit took her to places far and wide, with some of her most treasured memories being her travels to Australia and New Zealand with her beloved husband.
She found joy in exploring new places and sharing those experiences with her family. Cheryl was preceded in death by her parents; her in-laws, Ralph Sr. and Wilma Richmond; her husband, Ralph Jr.
; her brother, Jerry and his wife Virginia, Saundra Pereira, and Linda Nicosia. She leaves behind not only her immediate family but also dear friends and extended family members including Sherri Acosta, Maralynn Falkenstrom, Tracy Ogle, Sharon Richmond, Will Smith, Jeanna Mihevc, Bill & Terri Richmond, Alice Kelley, and Kay Pereira. Cheryl’s legacy is one of unwavering love, dedication, and kindness.
Her life was a testament to the power of family and the beauty of a life well-lived. She will be deeply missed but forever remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Rest in peace, Cheryl Ann Richmond.
Your love and light will continue to shine in the hearts of your family and friends forever. Family is planning a Celebration of Life on September 28th to celebrate Cheryl’s 80th Birthday. Arrangements are under the care of Coos Bay Chapel, 541-267-3131.
