Cheryl Diane McCollum was born in Fresno, California on November 16, 1953 and passed away peacefully at home in Kennewick, Washington on January 12, 2017.  She is preceded in death by her parents James Brandon and Katharine Helen McCollum.  Cheri’s survivors include: Sister Patricia L. Johnson (Gerald); nephews Brandon (Linda), Derek (Alysia), and Adam; grand nieces and nephews Bradley, Benjamin, Blair, Sierra and Faith; many beloved cousins; and a cherished circle of friends.

Cheri lived an independent, purposeful and diverse life.  While she left us too soon, she had the opportunity to experience an enormous amount of living in her 63 years.  Her youth was spent full of life and energy - whipping around Fresno in her little brown sports car. Although she never married or had children, she had many adventures with her beloved whippet dogs, Harri and George.

Cheri was never afraid of change and enjoyed a variety of occupations.  She was a model for JC Penney, a florist in Carmel and worked alongside her mother in a gospel music store.  She ultimately settled into her final career in IRS Appeals. Her work in Appeals included time in Fresno, Carmel, Chicago, Seattle, and finally Kennewick, Washington where she retired in 2009. Cheri’s co-workers became a close-knit family who held a special place in her heart.

Cheri was gifted with an artist’s touch for design and style which she used in many ways, including creating unique works of art.  She took delight in making beautiful gifts and jewelry for others and truly took pleasure in giving rather than receiving.  Another area of interest and talent was home décor. Cheri kept a beautiful home with her signature touch including her love of animal prints and the city of Paris, which will forever remind us of her.

Anyone that knew Cheri knew that she loved deeply, dearly and would always be there for her family and friends.  Her heart was so big that she would take on the burdens of others as her own. Her sense of humor and loving smile were truly contagious. “Shooti” to her parents, “George” to her sister, “Cheri D” to her family and loved by so many.  While it hurts to let you go, we will keep you close in our hearts until we are together again.

We invite family and friends to join us in a celebration of Cheri's life.  An informal open house will be held at her home from 1-4 pm on Sunday, February 12, 2017.  A light lunch and beverages will be served as we share memories, stories and photos.  In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to an animal charity of your choosing. For further information, contact Alysia (509) 947-3124.