Cherylee was the heart and soul of our family. Our rock. The one we all leaned on, warm and full of wisdom. If you needed to talk, she’d always be there, ready to listen without judgment and offer advice that somehow made everything feel lighter.

She had a big smile, a dry sense of humour that could catch you off guard, and a laugh that was truly infectious, you couldn't help joining in with. She brought people together through love, loyalty and the kind of quiet strength that never asked for recognition.

She was a homely person at heart. She chose family over adventure, roots over restlessness. While others chased far-off dreams, she found joy in the everyday: raising her daughter, baking, cooking, and hosting special gatherings that became family traditions. Bonfire nights, Christmas Eve with her daughter and nephew, these were more than events, they were memories she created for all of us, year after year.

From a young age, she was a bright spark. I remember our parents investing in extra maths tuition for her not because she struggled, but because they knew she had potential worth nurturing. And they were right. She went on to become the entrepreneur of the family, building not just one but two beauty salons. On top of that, she worked alongside our dad in the furniture shop.

She adored her dogs. She had five in total, four akitas and one husky, all together in a small cottage. They weren’t just pets to her; they were part of her family. The locals loved seeing her out with them, and she became known in the area for her bond with her dogs. In fact, the council even offered to name a local park after her, a dog park in her memory. I still hope this will happen. It would mean so much to all of us who knew how much joy her dogs brought her, and how much joy she brought to others through them.

She built things. Not just businesses, but relationships, homes, memories. And in everything she did, she gave her all. Even in death she made sure her daughter had funds to build a life, we were to find out!

She was one of a kind, and we were so lucky to call her ours.