Cheryl Lee, a beloved mother, spouse, daughter, and adored grandmother, peacefully entered her eternal resting place on June 8, 2023. She was born on December 16, 1946, in Stillwater, Oklahoma, to Abe and Polly Hesser. Ever the proud OSU Cowboy, Cheryl spent much of her childhood volunteering, working, or otherwise enjoying the Student Union at Oklahoma State University. Many of her fondest memories surrounded activities related to OSU.
Cheryl married the love of her life, Jeffrey Gordon Lee, on August 5, 1972 at First Christian Church in Stillwater, Oklahoma. Their union was a testament to love, devotion, and companionship, their bond served as an anchor throughout their lives together. Jeff and Cheryl were blessed with two daughters and four grandchildren, who were the joy of Cheryl's life. Cheryl's departure has left a void in the hearts of those who knew and loved her, but her life will forever be cherished.
Cheryl's commitment to education and her thirst for knowledge were evident from an early age. She graduated with distinction from CE Donart High School in Stillwater in 1965. Continuing her academic journey, Cheryl pursued her undergraduate degree at OSU before obtaining dual master's degrees in Gifted Education and Supervision from Texas Women's University in Denton, Texas. Undeterred by challenges, she pursued her Ph.D. by taking classes at the University of Virginia while working full-time in Richmond. Cheryl was proud of her knowledge & expertise in gifted education and considered it her calling to guide students that needed non-traditional classroom settings. Cheryl's dedication to education was an inspiration to all who crossed her path.
Throughout her 36 years of teaching, Cheryl taught in multiple school districts including Red Rock, OK; Denver, CO; Dallas, TX; Richmond, VA; and ultimately in Tulsa. Cheryl didn't just teach children. Upon returning to Stillwater in 1992, Cheryl joined Stillwater National Bank in the training department teaching customer service to bank employees. She enjoyed this change of environment and became active with the Oklahoma and National Banker's Association. When the family moved to Tulsa in 1995, Cheryl returned to teaching children as the Gifted Coordinator at Monte Cassino before finishing her career at Lee Elementary (now Council Oak). Her passion for teaching enriched the lives of countless students throughout her journey. She imparted knowledge, instilled values, and nurtured young minds, leaving an indelible mark on the educational community she served until she retired in 2005.
Everywhere she went, she touched lives with her generous spirit and heartfelt compassion. She had a heart of gold, always extending care and support to those in need. Cheryl's selflessness and giving nature were an embodiment of love itself, epitomizing the nurturing and devoted mother figure. While her daughters were growing up, she lovingly embraced the role, driving carpools and creating a warm and loving environment for all children. Her love knew no bounds, and she dedicated herself entirely to her family, gaining the nicknames June Cleaver and Momma C by her daughter's friends.
As a grandmother, Cheryl's love expanded to encompass a new generation. Her grandchildren held a special place in her heart, and she cherished every moment spent with them. In recent years, Cheryl lived just blocks away from all 4 of her grandchildren. She hosted summer
"Granny Camps" and each grandchild would stop by after school most days. Being a grandma was her life's most proud honor. She attended as many performances, games, events, and celebrations as she could. Her love knew no limits, and her grandchildren will forever remember her as a loving and doting Grandma.
Cheryl's caring nature extended beyond her immediate circle, as she devoted her time to numerous charitable causes, most recently the Fairlawn Cemetery Historical Preservation and Wreaths Across America. She selflessly volunteered, making a difference in the lives of others. Her dedication to serving others will forever inspire those who were fortunate enough to witness her kindness.
Though she has departed this earthly realm, her spirit will forever live on in the hearts and minds of those who were privileged to know her. May her soul find eternal peace, embraced by the loving presence of those who passed before her.
Cheryl is survived by her husband Jeff Lee; daughters Tracy & husband Matt Emmons, Amanda Lee Meadows; brother Rick Hesser and sister-in-law Terri Hesser; grandchildren JJ & Eli Emmons, Katie & Zac Meadows; nieces Abby and Andrea Hesser and a host of extended family members and friends who will carry her memory in their hearts. In this time of sorrow, let us find solace in the legacy of love she leaves behind.
To support organizations Cheryl treasured, donations can be made in her name to:
Fairlawn Cemetery of Stillwater, OK
1123 East 6th Ave
Stillwater, OK 74074
Beaver Street Baptist Church
102 W Beaver St
Jenks, OK 74037
Arrangements are entrusted to Schaudt's Glenpool-Bixby Funeral Service & Cremation Care Centers, 1329 East 151st Street, Glenpool, OK 74033. Family and friends may leave kind words of comfort, special memories and condolences to the family online at www.schaudtfuneralservice.com
Wednesday, June 14, 2023
5:00 - 8:00 pm (Central time)
Schaudt’s Glenpool-Bixby Funeral Service & Cremation Care Centers
Thursday, June 15, 2023
11:00am - 12:00 pm (Central time)
Beaver Street Baptist Church
Visits: 58
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the
Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Service map data © OpenStreetMap contributors