Cheryl Jones

SIKESTON, Mo. -- Cheryl Ann Jones, 67, of Sikeston passed away Thursday, Aug. 10, 2023, in Cape Girardeau surrounded by family.

She was born June 22, 1956, in Cape Girardeau to the late Gonnie and Duane Wiggins.

She was raised in Advance, Missouri, and graduated from Advance High School in 1974. She played volleyball and was the drum majorette for AHS marching band. She continued her education at Southeast Missouri State University and graduated in 1979 with a bachelor's degree in social work. Later, she graduated with a master's degree in public administration.

Cheryl was a compassionate and devoted professional. She dedicated herself to helping others throughout her 33-year career at Bootheel Counseling Services and retired as executive director in 2015. She made a significant impact on the lives of many throughout her life. Cheryl's commitment to her work and her unwavering kindness touched the hearts of those around her.

She married Wally Jones of Scott City in June 2002. They shared a special love for each other and enjoyed traveling and spoiling their grandchildren.

She accepted Christ as her Savior as a young teenager. She was calm and serene in her faith. Her character and temperament were tested when she was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease in 2015. She continued to love and live every moment she was given and maintained her kindness and grace until God called her home.

Cheryl is survived by her husband, Wally Jones of Sikeston; sister, Deana (Bill) Mason of Advance; daughter, Gretchen (Travis) Dirnberger of Kelso, Missouri; son, Tyler (Paige) Ward of Nashville, Tennessee; stepson, Jeremy (Christi) Jones of Jackson; and stepdaughter, Dana (Jeremy) Shirrell of Jackson. She was a proud and loving grandma to 11 grandchildren, Bennett and Lucie Dirnberger, Palmer and Graham Ward, Carter and Sawyer Jones, Charlee Koepp, Blake French and Parker, Jacob and Fisher Shirrell. She was also survived by numerous nieces, nephews and extended family.

Cheryl was preceded in death by her parents and brother, Charles Wiggins.

Family meant everything to Cheryl, and she loved her loved ones fiercely. She loved spending time with beloved friends and family members. She will be remembered for her generous nature and genuine kindness that emanated from her core. Cheryl's memory will forever be cherished by her family and friends.

A visitation for Cheryl will be from 1 to 3 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 13, at Morgan Funeral Home in Advance.

Funeral will be at 3 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 13, with the Rev. Nate Middleton officiating. Burial will follow at Morgan Memorial Park in Advance.

In honor of Cheryl's memory, contributions may be made to the Alzheimer's Association.