Cheryl Hernandez

Cheryl Lynn Hernandez, 75, passed away peacefully on June 29, 2026, with both of her sons at her bedside. Her passing leaves a deep void in the hearts of all who knew and loved her, but her legacy of faith, kindness, and devotion to family will live on.

Cheryl was born on August 21, 1950, and was raised in Pontiac and Waterford, Michigan. She was the beloved daughter of Loretta Bauer and Gordon Shelton, and later lovingly supported by her stepfather, Paul Bauer, and stepmother, Marjorie Shelton.

A proud member of the Waterford Township High School Class of 1968, Cheryl distinguished herself as a member of Michigan's All-State Choir, reflecting her lifelong love of music. Following graduation, she dedicated part of her career to serving others through her work in social services for Oakland County, Michigan. She later devoted twenty years to being a loving stay-at-home mother, a role she cherished above all others. After returning to the workforce, Cheryl served as an Office Manager for Affordable Dentures in Fort Wayne and then in Mishawaka Indiana, where she eventually retired.

Cheryl's greatest joy was her family. She loved spending time with those she held dear, whether gathered around a home-cooked meal, enjoying one of her baked goods, or simply sharing conversation and laughter. She enjoyed taking long drives, even when there was no particular destination in mind, finding happiness in the journey itself. Her faith was the foundation of her life, and she loved the Lord deeply. She attended Linworth Baptist Church.

Those who knew Cheryl will remember her as a woman of remarkable character—kind, intelligent, strong-willed, loving, and blessed with a quick sense of humor. She never met a stranger and had a unique ability to make others feel welcomed and valued.

Cheryl is lovingly survived by her sons, Jason Hernandez of Columbus, Ohio, and Justin Hernandez of Dublin, Ohio; her sister, Lee Ann Beckey of Tecumseh, Michigan; and her brother, Tom Bauer of Sterling Heights, Michigan. She is also survived by her nieces and nephews: Kristen McIlrath Blackburn of Blissfield, Michigan; Randee Harrigan of Ottawa Lake, Michigan; William Beckey of Saline, Michigan; Erik Beckey of Kansas City, Kansas; Bonnie Bauer of Chesterfield Township, Michigan; Paul Bauer of Las Vegas, Nevada; Joe Bauer of Hopewell, Virginia; and Chris Bauer of St. Petersburg, Florida, along with many extended family members and friends who loved her dearly.

She was preceded in death by her brother Charles Bauer, mother, Loretta Bauer; her stepfather, Paul Bauer, stepmother Marjorie Shelton, and her father, Gordon Shelton.