Cheryl Ann Spears

Cheryl Ann Spears passed away peacefully on January 31, 2026, in Manteca, California. Born on February 3, 1950, in Santa Clara, she spent 59 cherished years married to her devoted husband, Ralph Edward Spears, building a life filled with love, family, and dedication.

For more than thirty six years, Cheryl and Ralph worked side by side as the owners of Claire Street Auto Body in Hayward, California. Their shop became known not only for quality work but for the genuine kindness and honesty that Cheryl brought to every interaction.

Cheryl had a natural gift for making others feel cared for. She shared her love through cooking, baking, and the many handmade crafts she created-especially her beautiful crochet pieces, lovingly made for family and friends. Her creativity, warmth, and gentle spirit touched all who knew her.

Cheryl is survived by her loving husband, Ralph Edward Spears; her brother, Edward Wheeler; her children, Brenda Lee Gaffney (Steve), Gina Marie Kostkowski (Robert), and Ralph Edward Spears Jr.; and her bonus children, Michelle Ross, Ronny Spears, and Tommy Spears.

She leaves behind a large and loving family of grandchildren-

Steven Christopher Gaffney, Marissa Emily Peralta, Sierra Rose Kostkowski, Paulina Spears, Amanda Basinal, Laura Goodrum, Elise Goodrum, Aria Spears, Christina Sotelo, Steven Mederios, Justin Souza, and Shannon Souza-

and great grandchildren-

Natalie Gaffney, Emma Gaffney, Aubrey Perry, Aleck Perry, Noah Williams, Brielle Basinal, Carly Goodrum, Skye Sotelo, and Stella Sotelo.

Cheryl's life was a tapestry of love, creativity, and quiet strength. She had a way of making every person feel valued, every home feel warmer, and every gathering feel more meaningful. Her memory lives on in the traditions she created, the stories she shaped, and the many lives she touched with her kindness.

She will be deeply missed and forever remembered with love