It is with great sadness that we share the passing of Cheryl Perry who was 82. Surrounded by her family at their home, Cheryl peacefully transitioned on Sunday, July 26, 2026.

Cheryl was born on January 26,1944 in New Haven, Indiana to Edwin and Helen Cripe. Throughout her life, she was known for her kindness, her bright smile, her inviting personality, her love of family, and, above all, her faith.

Cheryl spent 30+ years working in an administrative role in the aerospace industry where she was respected for her work ethic and the many friendships that she formed along the way. Everyone loved Cheryl.

Outside of work, she enjoyed traveling and being outdoors as much as possible. She loved purple, sunflowers, and large family gatherings. Gardening, walking, going to the beach, spending time with friends, and any amount of time shared with her family and extended family, especially if ice cream was involved, made her the happiest. Her four children, seven grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren were her pride and joy.

She is survived by her husband of 62 years, Thomas “Tom” Perry. They met on a blind date in Cocoa Beach, Florida and married a year later. Together, they have four children who they are very proud of and love very much – Rodney Perry (Janice), Gina Reeves (Ronnie), Dora Duffy, and Billy Perry. Grandchildren and great-grandchildren were the light of her life. Any chance she had to attend a sporting event, birthday party, graduation, or host a visit, she never hesitated. Grandchildren – Marissah, Mason, “the triplets” - Madison, Presley, and Perry; Tucker and Saylor. Great grandchildren – Kaine and Kasen.

Cheryl was the oldest of 9 children and very close to her siblings. She was preceded in death by her brother, Greg Cripe, sisters Debbie Wiese and Lorie Johnson (to whom Cheryl selflessly donated a kidney). Her surviving siblings are Dan Cripe (Barb), Dave Cripe, Gary Cripe (Jill), Teresa Harrison (Pete), Tammy Glass (Bob), and sisters-in-law Mary Cripe and Erika Cripe.

Cheryl was an active member at First Baptist Church of Merritt Island for 50+ years and those who knew her will remember her deep love for Jesus. She shared a strong sisterhood with her Sunday School ladies’ group (Janie, Angie, Anne, Patty, Sue, and many more), as well as lifelong friends Sharon Daniels and Lorraine Berney.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, August 22, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at First Baptist Church Chapel of Merritt Island. Feel free to wear any shade of purple in honor of Cheryl.

The family would like to express their sincere gratitude to caregivers Robin Cota and Meghan Fiers, as well as VITAS Home Healthcare for their support, kindness, and care during this difficult time.

Cheryl’s memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her. We rejoice in knowing she is now with her Lord and Savior! She is finally HOME!

Proverbs 31:30-31 Charm is deceitful, and beauty is vain, but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised! Honor her for all that her hands have done and let her works bring her praise at the city gate.