Cheryl Elaine Watkins, born Cheryl Elaine Greenwood on February 8, 1968, in Memphis, TN, passed away on April 2, 2024, in the same city. She was a beloved daughter, mother, grandmother, and friend who touched the lives of many with her generous spirit and vibrant personality.
Cheryl's memory will forever be cherished by her sons Michael Watkins (Toni) and Nick Watkins (Minna), as well as her three adored grandchildren Adah, Azariah, and Harper. She was the proud mother who not only taught her sons how to play basketball but also shared joyful moments playing and dancing with her grandchildren. Cheryl's love for her family knew no bounds, and her legacy of love will live on through the generations she leaves behind.
Aside from her immediate family, Cheryl is survived by her mother Ernestine "Tina" (Curlin) Greenwood and siblings Gail Adams, Terri Barnes, Mary "Sissy" DeFazio, and Billy "Bubba" Greenwood, and friend and former husband Jamey Watkins. In this time of loss, may they find comfort in the treasured memories they shared together.
Cheryl is preceded in death by her father, Charles Greenwood and companion Charlie Brown.
Cheryl's journey was marked by significant accomplishments that brought her immense pride. She found joy in becoming a mother and grandmother while excelling in her passion for poker. Her strong will and determination were evident in her remarkable achievement of maintaining over 12 years of sobriety—an accomplishment she held dear to her heart.
Those who knew Cheryl remember her as a caring individual with a witty sense of humor and a fiery spirit—her red hair embodying her lively personality. She was down-to-earth and simple, finding joy in everyday moments like going to the beach with her sons or engaging in hobbies like poker, fishing, traveling, and camping, which she loved to do.
A Celebration of Life service to honor Cheryl's memory will be held on April 6, 2024, at the Cornerstone Church located at 5998 Elmore Rd, Southaven MS 38671. The service will commence at 2:00 PM and conclude at 4:00 PM—providing an opportunity for all whose lives were touched by Cheryl to come together and share their memories of a remarkable woman whose light will continue to shine brightly in their hearts.
In the tranquility of Cheryl's final resting place may she find eternal peace—a peace that she brought into the lives of those who were fortunate enough to know her. As we bid farewell to a cherished mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, friend—and an extraordinary soul—we take solace in knowing that Cheryl's memory will be a source of comfort and inspiration for all who were blessed to have known her.