Cheryl Vargas' Obituary
On March 26, 2025, we lost the heart and soul of our family, a wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, Cheryl Vargas. At the age of 59, she passed away, leaving an irreplaceable void in the lives of all who were fortunate to know her. Cheryl was a mother to all, her heart wide enough to embrace not just her own, but anyone in need of a loving place to call home. She lived with an authenticity and passion that she shared unapologetically with the world.
Cheryl was born on July 15, 1965 in Astoria, New York. She leaves behind her husband, Joe, the love of her life. They met as teenagers and their story began in the Rockaways ultimately bringing them to Arkansas to provide a better life for their family. Her daughter Crystal (Steven) and sons, Joey (Star) and Anthony (Xa) were her pride and joy. Her two beautiful granddaughters, Selena and Ava, meant the world to her, and she adored them beyond measure. Cheryl was a large part of her granddaughters' lives, helping to raise them with love, guidance and a fierce protectiveness. She was the sister of eight siblings, with whom she shared a deep connection. She had a unique bond with all of her nieces and nephews, sharing countless hours on the phone, inside jokes, nicknames and endless nights of card games.
A fiery soul, Cheryl was never one to back down from a fight. If you needed someone to go to battle for you, Cheryl was the one to call. She was known for embracing the excitement of games, always drawn to the rush of chance and the sparkle of the slot machines. Her miniature golden doodle, JoJo, brought her happiness during a time of great grief. Cheryl found joy in cooking for others, using each meal as a way to show her love. Cheryl was know for her Italian pride and one of the highlights of her life was a trip to Italy with her daughter, an experience that meant the world to her.
Though her journey was not easy, especially her battle with cancer and unimaginable pain. Cheryl showed everyone around her what it meant to be a fighter. Her son, Anthony and his wife, Xa without hesitation or question, were always there to care for her. She survived not just for herself, but for the people that loved her. Cheryl's strength continues to be the foundation of her family even though she is no longer physically with us.
Loosing Cheryl leaves a hole that can never be filled, but her legacy of love, commitment, sense of humor and relentless spirit will live on in her children, grandchildren, and countless loved ones. She was a woman who lived life on her terms and loved with all her heart. Cheryl left a mark that was distinctly hers, shaped by her candor and impactful presence. As she always said, “Meet me on the porch for a cig and a cup of coffee.” For us, this is not goodbye but see you later.
A Memorial service will be held 2:00 p.m. Friday April 18, 2025 at Nelson-Berna Funeral Home Rogers.
We have peace in knowing that Cheryl is reunited with her mother, Rita, son, Joey and many others.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Selena’s (Ugift Code: R3C-S6J) and Ava’s (Ugift Code: H0G-93T) college fund at www.ugift529.com.
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