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Cheri Mckay Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers from Nov. 19 to Nov. 20, 2010.

MCKAY - Cheri Lee McKay was born September 15, 1946 to Richard and Leona Leatherman. She has left this world to begin her next journey on Thursday, November 18, 2010. Cheri dedicated her life to teaching. It was more than a job for her, it was part of who she was. She graduated high school from Byron Center Public schools and then taught there until her retirement. Not only did she raise her own children, she helped to mold, and change the lives of countless children that were lucky enough to have her for their teacher. She leaves behind her sister, Ricki Carlton and husband, Greg of Winter Haven, Florida; her brother, Larry Leatherman, his wife, Doris of Ada, MI. She also leaves behind her daughter, Cherie McKay Rackley and husband, Ray of Lakeview, MI, son, Jon P McKay and Brenda Haraburda of Grand Rapids, MI; three grandchildren, Avery Rackley of Leland, NC, Sierra and Cheyenne Rackley of Lakeview, MI. She will be greatly missed by her many loved ones and dear friends. Memorial service will be Sunday 2:00 p.m. at the O'Brien-Eggebeen-Gerst Chapel, 3980 Cascade Rd. SE, Rev. Leonard Beck of Tallmadge Community Church, officiating. Visitations will be Saturday 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Michigan, 989 Spaulding Ave. SE, Ada, Michigan 49301 or Gilda's Club of Grand Rapids, 1806 Bridge St. NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504. O'Brien Eggebeen Gerst

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Recent Activity

April 26, 2022

Dustin Ritsema posted to the memorial.

November 22, 2010

Debra Kraai posted to the memorial.

November 22, 2010

Sue Holewinski posted to the memorial.

9 Entries

Dustin Ritsema

April 26, 2022

I graduated BCHS in 2008 and had Mrs. McKay in 8th grade. I am also 12 years late.....so sorry :( She was wonderful, at times feisty/grumpy, but in a good fun way if that makes sense. I was a "rebel" back then, very into skateboarding and playing music. I was a slight class clown but never over the top...one day I come to class after the weekend and Mrs. McKay gives me a big poster and booklet of something for "School of Rock", the movie with Jack Black (was new at the time). She took the time to think of me and bring that from out of the classroom to me because I was on her mind. That stuck with me forever. I'll be 32 this year and that is honestly one of my top memories from my entire educational career, K-12. I'll ALWAYS appreciate you Mrs. McKay...ALWAYS. That one moment was very special to me. Thanks for all you did outside of that too and not just for me but for everyone. I know you'll be missed. I think of you often honestly <3

Debra Kraai

November 22, 2010

I worked with Cheri for 7 years at the Byron Center Middle school. I was the school social worker. She often struggled with her health, but she never complained and was always more concerned about the struggles of her students. She was an extremely caring person. She had a talent with crafts and decorating that she didn't often get to display in her work as a middle school teacher. She lived a life where she worked hard but also enjoyed her hobbies. I enjoyed her as a person and a collegue. I will remember her for the support that she gave me and my caseload of middle schoolers.

Sue Holewinski

November 22, 2010

My condolences to you and your family Larry. So sad to lose a sister, may God give you peace and understanding at this difficult time. Your in my prayers.

Mickey Crump

November 21, 2010

My thoughts are with you at this difficult time.

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Judy Wilcox-Wolf-Weeks

November 21, 2010

My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

Shawn Fiers Lubbers

November 20, 2010

Ms. McKay was a great teacher to have. I was able to have her two different times. Once before kindergarten and the last time in sixth grade. She was very supportive of all of us students. I was sad to hear that she passed away. My thoughts and prayers go out to her family.

Ann Windemuller-Huizen

November 20, 2010

I was a lucky student that had her as a teacher, she was a wonderful lady ! Condolences to her family.

Teri Reed

November 20, 2010

Thoughts and prayers to the McKay family and friends.

Sherri Teets

November 19, 2010

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

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Funeral Services Provided By

O’Brien-Eggebeen-Gerst Chapel - Grand Rapids