Cheryl “Sherry” Brown was a caring and loving matriarch who will be dearly missed by many. She passed away on August 31, 2023, at the age of 65, in her hometown of Rochester, NY surrounded by her family. Her lifelong pulmonary difficulties and her battle with cancer clearly depicted her courage in facing life’s challenges with a smile. To many people’s surprise, Cheryl remained faithful and upbeat until the end, providing encouragement and preparing her loved ones for her eventual passing.
Cheryl had a vibrant personality that would light up a room and touch the hearts of those she met. Not because she was soft and warm, but because she lovingly spoke her truth whether you wanted to hear it or not. She loved hard and would truly give someone the shirt off her back, but not before giving a stern look, a long lecture, and a discussion about how to prevent such a situation from happening again.
Cheryl learned about her God Jehovah, dedicated her life to serving him, and was baptized on April 26, 2008. Despite her sickness, she thoroughly enjoyed being out in the ministry with her friends and sharing the good news of Jehovah’s Kingdom with anyone who would listen. Although her health often prevented her from being out in the ministry as much as she desired, she eventually met her goal to continuous auxiliary pioneer. Even in her last days, she touched many lives and hearts as she shared the hope of a better world to come.
Death was not a fear of Cheryl’s, as her strong faith in Jehovah’s promise to resurrect her to a paradise earth, kept her encouraged. She often referred to her favorite scripture as a source of reassurance and strength. Isaiah 41:10 states “Do not be afraid, for I am with you. Do not be anxious, for I am your God. I will fortify you, yes, I will help you, I will really hold onto you with my right hand of righteousness. (13) For I, Jehovah your God am grasping your right hand, the One saying to you do not be afraid. I will help you.”
The simplest pleasures in life brough Cheryl great joy. She loved spending time in the kitchen, making family favorites such as dressing, mac and cheese, neckbones, greens, and sausage bread to name a few. She also enjoyed listening to her favorite R&B oldies and doing all things crafts: crocheting, sewing, gardening, and anything she could make with her hands.
Cheryl is preceded in death by her husband, Harvey Brown; her parents, David Lawrence Jr. and Eleanor Lawrence; her son, Tafeek Bradley; and her siblings, Melvin Lawrence, Gwendolyn Evers, and Alan Lawrence. Left to cherish her memories are her children, Preston (Faith) Lawrence of Rochester, NY, Alan Lea, of Rochester, NY, and Chiqueeta (Javoras) Martin of Kannapolis, NC; and her brother, David Lawrence III of Rochester, NY. She is also survived by 4 grandchildren, 3 great-grandchildren, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and other relatives, and close friends.
A memorial service is scheduled for 2pm on Saturday September 9, 2023, at The Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses at 4343 Mt Read Blvd in Rochester, NY.
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