Cheryl Ann Cates, born on February 12, 1959, in Somerville, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully under hospice care on November 6, 2026.
Cheryl lived a life full of love, compassion, and dedication to her family and friends. She was the cherished daughter of the late Francis and Beverly Brown, and sister to the late Joyce Brown. Cheryl leaves behind her beloved husband, Maurice Cates, with whom she shared a beautiful marriage since December 7, 1991, when they wed in Ocean Springs, Mississippi. Their love story began in Phoenix, Arizona, at a bar named Mr. Lucky’s, where they first connected over a shared picture of water and free country and western dance lessons. Together, they built a family that includes their children Jason (Stacy) Cates of Cabot, Arkansas, Joshua (Shari) Murphy of Knob Noster, Missouri, and Katie (Joaquin) Landaverde of Valdosta, Georgia. Cheryl was also the proud grandmother of eleven dearly loved grandchildren.
Cheryl’s career was as diverse as her interests. She worked at the Base Exchange in Guam and managed a medical office in Arizona. However, her true passion was owning antique shops, a venture that allowed her to indulge in her love for antiques and interior design, often transforming her home into what many called a museum. Her eye for beauty was matched by her delight in rummaging through yard sales and roadside treasures. Cheryl was known for her unwavering kindness and generosity. Her friend Shonda Statini shared a heartfelt tribute, capturing Cheryl’s essence as a supportive, loving, and ever-present friend. Cheryl was there through moments of joy and hardship, always ready to lend a hand or a listening ear. Her love for animals, especially her dedication to rehabilitating opossums, showcased her compassionate spirit. In addition to her family, Cheryl is survived by her sister, Sharon (David) Lapp of Wyandotte, Michigan.
The family wishes to express their gratitude to the staff at Baptist Clay, Baptist South, and Baptist South Hospice for their exceptional care and support during Cheryl’s final days.
A celebration of Cheryl’s life will be held graveside on November 17, 2026, at 2:30 PM at Jacksonville National Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Cystic Fibrosis Research, in honor of Cheryl’s generous spirit and love for helping others.
Cheryl will be deeply missed by all who knew her, but her legacy of love and laughter will continue to live on in the hearts of her family and friends. May she rest in peace.
Please sign the family’s online guestbook at www.broadusraines.com.
Arrangements are under the care of Broadus-Raines Funeral Home, 501 Spring St., Green Cove Springs, FL 32043. (904) 284-4000.
