Cheryl Leonard

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It is with infinite sadness that we must announce that Cheryl Leonard of Walton passed away on Aug. 19, 2021, surrounded by her loving family. She is, and will be, missed more than words can say.

Cheryl was born in Queens in 1954, daughter to the late Marylyn and Phillip Mills. Cheryl spent her childhood and young adult life living in the borough of Queens as well as various areas of Long Island. She grew up loving horses and various other pets that her family owned. In her younger years, she developed a passion for fast cars and motorcycles, owning several and “borrowing” some, that she raced on the streets of Long Island, including her trike. She was a free, wild soul, living life to the fullest; you should’ve heard the stories... It was also during this time that she met her late husbands and fathers of her two children.

In 1988, Cheryl moved to Walton with her children to live next door to her parents, where she spent her remaining years. She shared a passion with her parents for gardening, antiques and auctions where they spent many hours and adventures creating memories. Cheryl had a passion for arts and crafts, spending many years painting, drawing, creating stained glass art, sewing, quilting, creating Christmas ornaments, and much more. She had a passion for animals, having multiple dogs, birds, fish and cats throughout the years. She also had a passion for music; you’d hear her coming from down the road cranking tunes in her car. However, most of all, she spent all of her years showing her unconditionally deep love and support for her family; she was the pillar and matriarch of her family.

Cheryl was a hard worker, going above and beyond to ensure her family had a great life. She worked at the Walton Central School (WCS), The Country Emporium and Hess where she formed countless friendships and bonds with coworkers, students and strangers alike. While at WCS, she coined the phrase “Get Off the Heataaaa!” keeping students in check with her thick Long Island accent. Legend has it, if you put your ear to the radiators in the high school on a crisp fall morning, you can still hear the echo...

Cheryl was preceded in death by her aforementioned parents, her husband, Francis Leonard; and former husband Edward Nabet, who remained a close friend, as well as several other close friends. Cheryl is survived by her children Lisa (Mike) Beers and Francis (Bambi) Leonard; grandchildren Ashley (Joe) LaTourette and their children Killian, Maverick and Ember; Michael (Hannah) Beers and their children Tristen and Michael; Kiana (Jacob) Wright and their children Jasper and Leyna; and Dawson Beers. She is also survived by her mother-in-law, Geraldine Leonard, and her children.

Calling hours will be held on Friday, Aug. 27, from 2-6 p.m. at Courtney Funeral Home, 25 Townsend Street, Walton. A service to celebrate Cheryl’s life will follow at the funeral home at 6 with Rev. Edward Golding officiating. Burial will be private at the convenience of the family.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Courtney Funeral Home, Walton. To leave a message of peace and comfort for Cheryl’s family, visit her online tribute at www.courtneyfh.com.