Cheryl Simon Burns, 68, of Portsmouth, went to her eternal rest on February 27, 2025, at SOMC. Born on April 17, 1956, she was the daughter of Ronald and the late Bobetta Simon.
Cheryl was a devoted mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. Along with her mother, she was preceded in death by her sister, Julie Skaggs; her brother, Patrick Simon; and granddaughter, Zenobia Patience Malone.
She is survived by her loving family, including her father, Ronald Simon; her seven siblings, Deborah (Steve) Hamilton, Michael (Tina) Simon, Kathy (Steve) Shope, Maria (Wayne) Combs, Michelle Spaulding, Mary (James) Dippel, and Mark (Kathy) Simon. She also leaves behind her three children, Jennifer (Meno) Howell, Rebecca Howell, and Kenneth (Alexandria) Howell, as well as twelve cherished grandchildren: Hannah, Abigail, Donicka, Donielle, DJ, Damisha, Josh (Brooke), Skylar, Anikin, Brycelynn, Alexis, and Kendyn; her great-granddaughter, Taliyah; her close friend, Virgil Burns; and her faithful companion, her dog Bobbie, who was always by her side.
Cheryl’s family meant everything to her. Her greatest joy was caring for the people she loved. She had a heart full of kindness and always put others first, whether it was offering a helping hand, a listening ear, or simply reminding her family how much they meant to her. She made sure no one ever felt alone, always checking in and keeping in touch with phone calls that could brighten even the hardest days. Her warmth and compassion were constant, and her love was always felt. She was the heart of her family, and her presence will be deeply missed by all who knew her.
A visitation will be held at Melcher Hammer Funeral Home on March 6th from 4:00 to 6:00 PM. A funeral service will follow at 6:00 PM.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you cherish your loved ones and honor Cheryl’s memory by extending kindness to others.
