Obituary published on Legacy.com by Zeyer Funeral Chapel - Nampa on Jul. 30, 2025.
Claudia Cheri Cady
July 13, 1954 – July 27, 2025
Claudia Cheri Cady passed away peacefully on July 27, 2025, in
Nampa, Idaho, at the age of 71. Born on July 13, 1954, in Aberdeen, Washington, Claudia spent the majority of her life in Fairbanks, Alaska, where she built a life rooted in family, creativity, and quiet compassion.
Claudia was known for her strong work ethic and dedication, spending many years employed at Kmart in Fairbanks before continuing her career at OfficeMax. Beyond her professional life, she was a woman of deep curiosity and artistic talent. A lifelong history enthusiast, she held a particular fascination for the ancient worlds of Egypt and Rome. She was also an accomplished artist and wood carver, a gifted writer, and an avid reader whose creative spirit never waned.
Later in life, Claudia took up crocheting and found joy in crafting scarves for homeless veterans - a quiet but powerful testament to her generous and empathetic heart. Her love of storytelling and laughter came alive in her adventures with her best friend and sister-in-law, Cathy - often punctuated by shared Starbucks coffee, even if it meant braving a trip through the dreaded car wash.
Claudia's deepest love was reserved for her family. Her children were the light of her life, and her devotion to her grandchildren and great-grandchild was fierce and unwavering. She nurtured not only her own children, but many nieces and nephews whom she loved as her own.
She is preceded in death by her mother, Dorothy Cady; her father, Claude Cady; her siblings Jimmy, Dale, and Mary. She is survived by her brother Carl Cady and his wife Cathy of
Nampa, Idaho; and her brother Tommy Binski of Aberdeen, Washington. Claudia also leaves behind her children: Tracy Smith of Centralia, Washington; Scott Rivera and his husband Johnny of Riverside, California; and Angie Herren and her husband Jamie of Anchorage, Alaska. She will be lovingly remembered by her grandchildren: Johnothan Smith (and wife Taylor), Kayla Smith, Jessica Herren, Cody Herren, Colton Herren, Christopher Herren, and Jenna Herren; and her great-granddaughter, Sophia Pearl.
Claudia's legacy is also carried on by the many nieces and nephews she helped raise and loved unconditionally.
In accordance with her wishes, no formal services will be held. Her ashes will be scattered at a later date in Ocean Shores, Washington, where her family will gather in remembrance.
To honor Claudia's memory, donations may be made to International Friends of Compassion at www.ifcus.org, an organization close to her heart and directed by her beloved brother, Carl. She was deeply proud of his work and would be honored by any support made in her name.