We celebrate the life of Cheryl LeeAnn Brown, who died after struggling with a long illness. Cheryl is remembered by her family and friends as a beautiful spirit, a talented artist, a caring defender of those less fortunate, and a loving wife, mother, grandmother (Yaya), sister, and friend. Truly, to know her was to love her.
Cheryl was raised in Maryland by her parents, Gerard Forest and Ann Marie Giglio, the second of seven children. Her siblings were very close, and during rough patches, came to depend on Cheryl as a steady anchor of the family. After completing school, she became a paralegal, a job that she loved. She also became a mother to two beloved children, Nicole and Justin, whom she raised in close proximity to her sisters and their children. Deeply devoted to both children, she made many sacrifices to support their passions, such as Justin’s many sports, especially baseball. Her daughter’s death in a tragic accident was a defining moment in her life, but ultimately strengthened her resolve to live every moment to the fullest.
In the 90’s, she moved to Huntsville, establishing deep and lasting friendships with neighbors, co-workers, fellow yoga and cycling enthusiasts, and her art teachers and community. In 2005, she and Andy met on a bike ride, got engaged in Greece, and in 2007 were married in a “weddingmoon” in Barbados.
Cheryl and Andy loved to travel, especially with family and friends. They enjoyed cruises to the Caribbean and Alaska and had numerous bicycle and sightseeing adventures across the US and throughout Europe. At their new home that she substantially designed, Cheryl’s artwork flourished. Her artwork and aesthetic tastes were admired, leading her to apply her talents to a number of professional interior decorating projects in recent years as well as several superb paintings that were sold at auction to support worthy organizations. She also became quite adept at yoga, leading small classes with her girlfriends in her art studio.
Cheryl adored her two little grandsons, Henry and James, and spent many wonderful days and nights with them. During her final years, her grandsons were a true highlight of her life.
Cheryl is survived by her husband, Andy; son, Justin; grandsons, Henry and James; six siblings, Elizabeth, Jerri, Denise, Michele, Ann, and Gerard; and lots of nieces and nephews. Her sister, Danielle, preceded her in death.
The family will hold a private funeral.
In lieu of flowers, please send donations to one of her favorite causes, Doctors Without Borders.
