Cheryl Walker

Cheryl Ann Walker
Sep. 07, 1948 ~ Feb. 15, 2025
Cheryl Ann (Duerden) Walker, age 76, returned to her Heavenly Father on February 15th, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. Her passing marks the end of a life defined by unwavering faith, devotion to family, and service to others.
Born September 7, 1948 to Joan Davidson Duerden and Leland C. Duerden, Cheryl was the first born child and grandchild. She was raised in a family deeply rooted in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This foundation shaped her entire life, instilling in her a profound love for the gospel and a commitment to living its principles.
In the summer of 1966, while visiting both sets of grandparents in Pocatello, Idaho, and preparing to attend BYU that fall, Cheryl met her eternal companion, Marc Walker. It was a blind date set up by her cousin. Their new friendship began with a few dates before she departed for BYU. Many letters, long distance calls, and occasional rideshare visits to Pocatello brought them closer together. She spent the summer of 1967 with her family in California, before returning to BYU in the fall of 1967. Marc was now working at KCPX-TV and attending the University of Utah. The shorter distance made it easier to visit and date.
This close friendship continued to blossom into a love that would last forever. They were sealed for time and all eternity in the Salt Lake Temple in August 1968, launching a journey of faith and love that has spanned over 56 years, so far.
Cheryl's passion for learning and spiritual growth was evident in her love of books, including classic literature. She became especially well read in religious texts and commentaries. She found great joy in studying the scriptures, constantly seeking to increase her understanding of the gospel, and strengthen her testimony. Her extensive knowledge of church doctrine and history was matched only by her ability to apply these teachings in her daily life, serving as an inspiration to all who knew her.
Throughout her life, Cheryl served faithfully in numerous church callings. She was a dedicated teacher, touching the lives of many through her insightful lessons and compassionate approach. For many years, she served as a temple worker, finding great fulfillment in this sacred service. Her commitment to the church was unwavering, and she approached each calling with enthusiasm and dedication.
Cheryl's devotion to her family was the centerpiece of her life. She embraced her role as a homemaker and stay-at-home mother with joy and purpose, creating a warm and loving home filled with the spirit of Christ. She delighted in teaching her children and grandchildren, not only through words but through her exemplary life.
She was an excellent cook and knew how to make wonderful foods. This became a symbol of her love and the warmth of her home. Her grandmother's white bread recipe, baked by her mother, was a favorite of her father. Cheryl became an expert in crafting it for her family. Her wonderful Pineapple Raisin Cookies became a secret family recipe, because Nathan always wanted to have the best cookies to share.
Her talents extended beyond the kitchen. Cheryl was an accomplished seamstress and knitter, using these skills to bless the lives of others. She sewed pajamas for charity and knitted countless slippers for family, friends, and those in need. These acts of service were a testament to her giving nature and her desire to follow the Savior's example of ministering to others. She has also loved to crochet, and did some work with ceramics.
Throughout her life, Cheryl faced health challenges with grace and fortitude, never allowing them to diminish her faith or her zest for life. Her strength in adversity is a powerful example to all who knew her.
Cheryl is survived by her loving husband, Marc; her children Nathan (Yoshiko), Rebecca, Rachel, and Michael (Candice); eight cherished grandchildren; and her siblings Karen, Sterling (Angie), and Marilyn (Todd). She was preceded in death by her parents and her brother Steven.
Cheryl's life is a beautiful testament to the power of faith, the importance of family, and the joy of service. Her legacy of love, compassion, and unwavering devotion to the gospel will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know her. While she will be deeply missed, we take comfort in knowing that she has returned to her Heavenly home, where she has been welcomed with open arms by those who went before her.
A viewing will be held on February 25th from 6-8 PM at the Jenkins-Soffe Funeral Home in South Jordan.
The funeral service will take place on February 26th at 10:30 AM at her home ward house, 1988 W 11400 S, South Jordan, UT.