Obituary of Cheryl Checola LeMaster

If you are reading this, I’ve left my earthly home on 21 February 2024 after a long battle with COPD. I hope to be reunited with my mom and dad who died much too young in 1987 2 months apart; my family and friends who have gone before me and all the dogs I’ve loved through my life are waiting at the Rainbow Bridge. 

I was born Cheryl Ann Checola on December 15, 1959, in Glen Cove, Long Island, NY. I was an only child. I became a nurse and worked in various hospital areas including cardiac care and med/surg and after marrying, became CEO of the home. Wife and mother were my most important roles. I was also the ask a nurse for my friends’ ailments and then ask a dog fancier for misc. dog-related questions. Speaking of dogs I was very involved in showing my Staffordshire Bull Terriers which I enjoyed very much. I think most people who knew me thought I was quite humorous, a definite potty mouth, forthright, and somebody you’d want on your side. 

I am survived by my wonderful husband, best friend, and soulmate Jack, who took impeccable and tireless care of me over the past few years and whom I appreciated and loved more than he’ll ever know. I have never known a kinder, more decent, and fair human being than him; my beautiful daughter Brenna Jauregui, the absolute pride and joy of my life. I was beyond blessed to be her mom; the best son-in-law ever Thomas Jauregui, who was a wonderful addition to our family; my mischievous and lovable grandchildren TJ, Madelyn and baby girl Alaia born on Dec 11, 2023; our sweet, silly, ball obsessed Staffordshire Bull Terrier Pebbles; my mother-in-law Guyneth LeMaster; my sisters-in-law Patti Newton and Judy Thrash; my cousins Cathy Baron and Doug Baron and many friends including my badass tribe. You have all made my life better in some way and you are all truly loved.

A special thank you to my PCP Dr. Kiron Malhotra, MD for her years of care and compassion and also to Dr. Zaki Elmaghraby, MD my pulmonologist for 17 years. He and I had a special relationship - sometimes argumentative but always amusing. His professionalism and empathy were always appreciated. 

And finally, live each day like it’s your last because nobody is promised tomorrow.