 My Mom, Chere's Auntie Darlene, laid the path for what I'll always think of remembering, Chere.

From photographs we had around our home,  when I was young, especially the High School graduation photo to my Mom's excitement if asked about Hollywood family, it was clear they were special to her.

For me, a little girl, Chere, a cousin in California!!!!!  looked like a movie star with perfect hair AND was something to brag about at school and in the neighborhood. 

At the wedding shower for her and your Dad, held in Millie and Kenny's back yard, I remember her beauty, makeup, hair and accent 🤗. !!:)) And the wool Hudson's Bay blanket gift? Not understanding why it would be needed in a hot climate where I was sure she wore a fancy dressing gown as in the Hollywood movies or hot pants, mini skirts all day long.  She was polite and grateful for everything. And the family turn out to see them was fantastic. I remember standing beside her in awe. Wow. 

My first visit to California was at 12. Chere and the others were amazing showing us around the attractions. Looking out for us. Taking pictures.

Any time my Mom spoke about her and what I saw as I matured was a very bright, hard, working lady. It seemed she could tackle any career. 

Any time my Mom asked
for a place to stay, she said yes. My Mom and Chere❤

Mom, Grant and I enjoyed the hospitality, laughs, Chere's laugh, pool, talks, drives, both of us crying in the car on a couple of  drives about serious subjects, dinners out and about, (aboot)  showing us the California she enjoyed. I drove her car when I was 18. Thank goodness I had Char to follow the entire route. 

That same hospitality trait has been passed down to both you, Shannah and Teresa and I am forever grateful for being a part of  Chere's family.

Love and gratitude to your family always, Shannah and Teresa. Your family's hospitality and safe place to land will always be remembered.

Love Jullie (  memories of Auntie Dar)

Condolences, Ernie







 

My Thoughts On Mom (Shared)
I've heard the term "LifeStory" a few times in prep for my Mom's Celebration.  It seems fitting as we share countless stories of her life & how she touched an innumerable amount of people. Live Well. Laugh Often. Love Much. She was always HAPPY TO HELP anyone. Just tell her What, When & Where & she'd be there.  We came across Mom's Daily Journal (of sorts). One such entry read: "There's always a reason you meet people. You'll either change their life or they'll change yours." Another read: "Don't measure your life by possessions, measure it by hearts you've touched  smiles you created & love you shared." It didn't matter if she'd known you for years or just met you today, she made you feel welcome & encouraged you to join us in our plans.  Her home was always open. The fridge & pantry were always stocked.  Every home they owned had to have at least 1-2 EXTRA bedrooms in case we had visitors. A Strong woman. Taught us Never to Give Up. The tag line "She Believed She Could, So She Did" was created for her specifically. An incredible work ethic, instilled it into us. She spoke her mind, although sometimes she probably shouldn't have. I think of another journal entry found: "Sometimes the thoughts in my head get bored & go out for a stroll through my mouth. That's rarely a good thing." Loved to laugh. I still can't believe something she told me once: "Life is like toilet paper. Sometimes you're on a roll, other times you're taking crap from some A-Hole!" Gone too soon. I'm still pretty mad at God. She was my friend. My confidant. My Kid's & My Biggest Fan. Now they don't have any Grandparents (Not out of HS yet!)I will miss so much about her: people watching, phone conversations, going to restaurants/Horse Shows, watching  her ride shotgun in her golf cart. God's got His reasons. I'm not happy about it, but there's nothing I can do about it.  At least I have your VOICEMAILS!  Rest In Peace, Beautiful! Until I see you again. I LOVE YOU MOM!

 grandma was a pretty hard woman to forget. from the tv blaring judge judy and her criticizing each participant, to having her order done exactly right. every waiter, waitress, and worker would know her. when you woke up in the morning you could tell she had already made herself breakfast by the burnt smell coming from the toaster. she would spoil us. every-time we came to see her or she would pick us up from school she’d always take us to get food. she’d insist on it. she’d not only treat her grand children with kindness but anyone who had met her. i can recall times where the cousins would come to her and ask for gum, or while i was at the barn in the summer she would get my friends and i treats and goodies and spend time with us in the barn. i know she loved going to my horse shows, and i’m glad she was there to watch me grow throughout the years in riding and as an individual. i’m going to miss her cheering for me at my horse shows.

My Thoughts About My Mom (Part One) 
Mom, needless to say, you're gone WAY too soon.  Never in a million years would I have thought that I'd have to say goodbye so soon.  I keep replaying Cody Johnson's Song lyrics in my head: "If you've got the chance, take it. Take it while you've got the chance."  I can tell you right now, I didn't heed those words and now I regret it.  Although we spent a lot of time together, went to numerous horse shows, shared quite a few lunches and dinners, countless phone calls, I can honestly say that those moments weren't enough. Never enough now that you're gone. I will always feel that there could have been and should have been more. I'm grateful that I have umpteen voicemails that I have saved on my phone so that I will always be able to hear your sweet voice. 
You were my Friend. My Confidant. My Biggest Fan and Greatest Supporter in ALL that I did. No one believed in me more than you did. I learned so much from you: Strong will. Work hard. Help as much as you can. Be kind. Enjoy life. Travel! Laugh! Love! LIVE!! You taught me how to party (so you shouldn't have been too surprise when I threw that High School Party at your house while you and Dad were away!)  Your "BackYard Pool Parties" complete with a parking lot of no less than 12 cars parked in your custom widened driveway and even more cars parked up and down the street and rented items like a canoe for a beverage cooler and an actual stand up bar table and chairs (way before this was the cool thing to have in your own backyard!) So many of your friends waited anxiously to receive an invitation to one of your extravagant parties. 
More added in a separate memory.  I am limited to 2000 characters. :P
I LOVE YOU MOM! 

My Thoughts About My Mom (Part Two)
Some of my most fondest memories are the more recent ones at Horse Shows that you accompanied me to.  You had the chance to relive your younger days as a Horse Show Mom, this time dotting on your Grandkids.  I know you enjoyed it so much, as did I as well as Vinnie & Ciara. 
I will miss so much about you: your laugh, your voice, watching you people watch,, phone conversations, lunches & dinners, your beautiful smile and those super white teeth! And your incredibly sparkly hazel eyes. I will miss your hugs and your kind words.
Believe it or not, I might even miss the smell of burnt tortillas and making bets on whether you would send your food back that evening. :P
I'm so very sad that you've gone so soon.  I'm grateful that because of your love for Jesus that I will see you again.  I'm also so very honored to be called your daughter and so proud that you were my Mom! You did such a great job being our Mom!
Rest In Peace, Beautiful! Please come visit me in my dreams, for I miss you dearly! I Love You! Teresa

Chere was one of the first human beings to come into my life other than my family.  And though my parents were not able to ever give me a sister, God saw to it that day in 1960 that I had three. 
From Chere I learned love, hospitality, forgiveness and how  to be “a boss”.
I also learned how to use up three full closets in  a ship’s stateroom leaving not the tiniest of spots for the other two guests to hang a hankie! 
I used to love the family gatherings at Chere and Denis’, especially when I neglected to bring a bathing suit and I’d have to wear one of Chere’s. I think they were all pretty much from the 60’s with the built in torpedo bras. “Vogue. Vogue. Vogue.” I felt like Madonna reinventing herself once again.  I would have been honored to ever have the opportunity to reinvent myself to be more like Chere. I loved her “sass”. I loved her big open heart and I will carry her love with me for the rest of my days. “Until we meet again”

When Grama lived with us I never had to worry about finding something yummy to eat, she would always get us fast food even if we said she didn’t have to. I will miss her always wanting and needing to take care of us and always making sure we were happy. I learned from watching her to look my best at school just like she tried to look her best everyday. And believe it or not I will miss her always asking for help with her electronics and how she made me feel like a genius when she thanked me for helping her.
I will forever miss you Grama.

One of the last times I came to visit... Your Mom.. Chere. Said.. Gigi...take  off that hat.. so I can see you.. lol. Then later she said .. let's order pizza Gigi.. would you like that? I said yes.. perfect! And we watched Fox News. She was happy and I was happy to be around her. I will miss her smile. Lots of love xo Gigi. 

Each time we saw Chere she had a smile on her face. She was such a beautiful and kind lady. We will keep you all in our thoughts and prayers.

Shannah and Teresa - Two names I uttered daily in the summer to my mom asking if we could go across the street to your house on Glenview to swim in your pool or to watch t.v. together in the afternoon’s (Brady Bunch or Little House on the Prairie). Your mom and dad were so gracious to have us over. Yes some days we forgot our towels and other days we wanted a snack, your mom was always there with a towel or a cookie. Chere  included us in your family events, making us feel a part of your family.
Now as I say your names I think of the heartache and sadness you both have and hope you are comforted with all the happy memories you share of your mom.  Your  mom will forever live in your hearts and you now have another Angel in heaven looking over you and your families. May her memory be eternal❤️🙏🏻

In 2014 Chere opened up her home to us.  She allowed Dot and I to stay with here for a week while details were being worked out for our move from California to Frisco Lakes.  For that , we will always remember Chere for her kindness and generosity.  RIP Chere.
Ken and Dot Cover

Love you. I remember our fun times. Remember the night at Riverside we wore our American Flag hats running through the casino just like kids. We had so much fun. Not a care in the world. I love you. 

Horse Show Memories - Riley and D with Auntie Chere

Just a few of the many many memories of Auntie Chere!

Oh the memories I have of my Aunt Chere!  I was her third child spending every summer at her house swimming with Shannah and Teresa.  One of my best memories was the Luau party where we had a absolute blast.  The front of the house was a parking lot, cars upon cars.   Auntie Chere was always there for our ice skating competitions and horse shows.  Auntie Chere and my Mom took Shannah and I to Las Vegas for our 21st birthday and had the time our our lives.  I remember going to see my very first play Phantom of the Opera, going on cruises, going to Big Bear, Canada,  the list goes on.  Auntie Chere was a rock in the family and  loved each and every one of us.  I will miss my Aunt very much but I know that she is in heaven with the love of her life Uncle Denis and her Mom and Dad.  We Love you and will miss you.

My Sister…
     she danced,
she sang, she took,
     she gave,
   she Loved,
     she created,
  she  thrived, she enlivened, 
she saw, she grew, she sweated,
     she changed,
   she learned, she laughed,
      she shed her skin,
she bled in the pages of her days,
     she walked through walls,
           she lived with intention”

This was my sister.  Chere’s life was full of  so many wonderful blessings.  A childhood with parents that taught her to be strong, pursue her dreams, live, laugh and love, and keep the bond of family a priority.  Chere did all that and so much more.  

As my older sister, I looked up to her.  Chere was a person who never let grass grow beneath her feet.  She strived to always do better, which in turn gave me the desire to go forward and do better at whatever my passion was.  She absolutely lived our Mom’s rule of “where there’s a will, there’s a way”.  I truly admired her for all her accomplishments in her lifetime.

For all three of us sisters, family was ALWAYS a priority.  Chere had a heart of compassion.  She helped many members of our family with a temporary shelter, a glass of wine and a shoulder to cry on, food and funds when there was none,  all while going through her own trials and tribulations.  Chere was a pillar of strength, and God knows she was a force to be reckoned with.

I still can’t believe you’ve left us and have gone to be with our Lord.  The only comfort in my heart is knowing how much you loved and trusted Him, and that you’ll spend eternity with Jesus, Denis, the love of your life, and Mom and Dad.  And someday, we will see each other again.

I miss you Cher-Bear, your beautiful smile,  and your gorgeous hazel eyes.  I will be forever grateful that us three sisters got to spend the summer together last year.  So many laughs and memories that will forever be dear in my heart.  You were so happy, and shined from the inside out.

Spread your wings and fly free Sis.  I love you ❤️🦋✝️

My big sister, she could light up a room if she wanted , she was full of life , beautiful , a heart of gold, full of wisdom and family was everything to her. She had her own opinions and didn’t mind sharing them . All these things made her  unique . She dressed to impress , her hair had to be perfect and believe me I know because I used to hold the mirror for her so she could see the back of her hair . I will miss her every day , spread your wings beautiful and fly❤️

Cousins Shannah & Teresa,

A fond memory with your mom...

Chere...I don't let too many people drive my car, need to run some errands,  Dave's not here, would you like to drive me around?
Me...sure
Chere...may I see your D.L. (serious look, then, smiles😄)
Me...show my D.L. (we both laugh🤣🤣)
Chere...ok, let's go (stop n go to many stores, bank, etc), then, lunch

Waitress asks Chere what she'd like to drink...glass of wine, but, nothing for him "he's my driver", diet coke it was (both laugh🤣🤣)
Chere...you should be wearing a hat
Me..."a hat?"
Chere...yea, one of those hats a chauffeur wears ( bursts out laughing🤣)

Eventually return to the Crowley Hacienda, exit the vehicle, Chere saying, "Hey, give me a hand over  here", which, I did  (gently, really😁)

Me...so, how was my driving!
Chere...it was good, but, there's no pay (both burst out laughing🤣🤣)

One day, Chere mentioned how she liked that I made her laugh

I will always cherish her wonderful smile and will wear 'the hat' when we meet one day in heaven🤠

Chuckle on, cousin Chere...big hug!

Cousin Danny🙏😇




We have so many fond memories of dear Aunt Chere. It all started when Darren and I were dating as teenagers. We used to go to Aunt Chere and Uncle Denis’ house for family hangouts. They always opened their doors for all family and friends. We had a blast swimming, listening to music, and watching old home videos of the family. I remember how much I loved the fresh popcorn Aunt Chere would make with yummy butter and salt. There are so many other fond memories of Aunt Chere from family gatherings, weddings, parties, etc. Aunt Chere and Uncle Denis always went over and above with their Halloween costumes at Teresa’s Halloween parties. I always thought - how fun are they?! One year, we all went to Medieval Times to celebrate her birthday. She had a blast and we got to take a family photo of everyone who attended (33 people). This just goes to show how much Aunt Chere meant to this family. Another memory I have of Aunt Chere was our Who-ville New Years Eve Party. We hosted this at our house and all dressed like characters of Who-ville. She walked in with grandpa all dressed up like elves. It was so fun! She loved her family dearly and enjoyed watching her grandchildren’s activities. She was so proud of all their accomplishments. Aunt Chere always tried to look her best… hair and makeup always nicely done. She was always kind to my family. She was very generous and would give the shirt off her back for anyone. We will miss Aunt Chere dearly. I know she is up in heaven looking down on us and enjoying being back together with her beloved husband Denis, grandma and grandpa, and the rest of her family, friends and furry loved ones. We love you Aunt Chere! 

We have so many fond memories of dear Aunt Chere. It all started when Darren and I were dating as teenagers. We used to go to Aunt Chere and Uncle Denis’ house for family hangouts. They always opened their doors for all family and friends. We had a blast swimming, listening to music, and watching old home videos of the family. I remember how much I loved the fresh popcorn Aunt Chere would make with yummy butter and salt. There are so many other fond memories of Aunt Chere from family gatherings, weddings, parties, etc. One year, we all went to Medieval Times to celebrate her birthday. She had a blast and we got to take a family photo of everyone who attended (33 people). This just goes to show how much Aunt Chere meant to this family. Another memory I have of Aunt Chere was our Who-ville New Years Eve Party. We hosted this at our house and all dressed like characters of Who-ville. She walked in with grandpa all dressed up like elves. It was so fun! She loved her family dearly and enjoyed watching her grandchildren’s activities. She was so proud of all their accomplishments. Aunt Chere always tried to look her best… hair and makeup always nicely done. She was always kind to my family. She was very generous and would give the shirt off her back for anyone. We will miss Aunt Chere dearly. I know she is up in heaven looking down on us and enjoying being back together with her beloved husband Denis, grandma and grandpa, and the rest of her family, friends and furry loved ones. We love you Aunt Chere. 

I’m so sorry for the loss of Auntie Chere. As a close knit family, Auntie Chere was like one of my mom’s growing up. My memories of her and Uncle Denis are so fond and I’ve learned so much from them. My memories include awesome luau parties, horse shows (seriously the best cinnamon rolls and driving a golf cart), ski/snowboarding trips, camping trips, holiday celebrations, family trip(s) to Canada, Oregon, weddings, and so much more. Growing up so close to the family, I saw Auntie Chere thrive as an Entrepreneur with her cleaning business, provided a wonderful life for her family along with Uncle Denis, and I envied that growing up. But I learned overtime, that Auntie Chere and Uncle Denis were just doing what they loved, which was providing their best for their family. I saw what hard work can do. I also saw how they loved providing, hosting and gathering their family and friends together often which brought the best memories of our family together. All of us cousins still talk about their parties, Grandpa singing, throwing people into the pool, and laughing, especially when the Canadian’s we’re here to visit. And over the past recent years, I learned it is the next generation’s turn to host family events, and bring the family and friends together, and make new memories. Kim and I welcome that privilege, and love being part of bringing the family together. Lastly, I’ll always remember Auntie Chere for being set in her ways. Burnt food, the right price, send it back if she didn’t like it, speak her mind, laugh and just watch her family and friends come together. What a special lady that liked it her way. My Aunt. A pillar of three sisters, who stayed close together over their entire life, a creator of memories and a foundation of this family. You will be missed Auntie Chere, but your spirit lives on with your family. Love you, Darren  

Chere has been my Best Friend since 5th grade.  We always did everything together, especially when it came to school activities like Junior High Cheerleading, Drill Team in High School, school dances and hanging out with friends.  One day I thought my world had changed forever when a handsome young man, by the name of Denis Murray, came into Chere’s life and stole her heart!  I had never seen her so happy and in love.  Of course, I was so excited and honored to be asked to be her Maid of Honor at their wedding!!!

Life happens, we move apart, start families and lose touch until our 25th High School Class Reunion.  We just picked up from where we left off—like we’d never been apart.  Funny how that happens with close friends.  What a fun night that was, seeing Chere and Denis again.

We lost touch again until we found each other on Facebook.  Denis had passed and I had remarried.  With Chere being in Texas and me in California, it seemed impossible that we’d get together again until one day last summer.  Chere texted me and said that she was at her sister’s home in Bullhead City and could I come see her.  Well, we went and had the best time visiting with Chere, her sisters, Charlene and Cheyenne and their hubbies!!!  Little did I know it would be the last time I would see my Very Best Friend!  I did get to tell her that she was, is, and always will be my BFF.  No one else has ever been the friend to me that Chere IS!  I WILL ALWAYS LOVE YOU!!! ❤️👯‍♀️

Shannah and Teresa,
It is so hard too say goodbye to someone you love, then again, it isn’t a goodbye, its more like a “ill see you later “  Mom’s are the foundation of a family, they instill many virtues in their children. Kindness, hard work, compassion, forgiveness,  spiritual principles , respect for all , truthfulness , all these are the qualities of an amazing mom…..Your Mom. Her mom instilled them into her and in turn she has instilled them in you both. She will truly be missed by all. 

Much love from Darren, Susan, Emily and Austin Helderweirt

I remember the first time I met Auntie Chere like it was yesterday!  Ricky had brought me over to introduce me to his mom and I walk in and Shannah, Teresa and Auntie Chere were all there as well.  We sat and talked for about 10 mins and she says  You’re coming to family dinner on Sunday and I won’t take no for an answer!  She welcomed me into the family with open arms after 10 mins, which she did with everyone!  We had so many memories from family dinners to engagement parties to weddings and so many others.  There was never a dull moment!  Chere is and will be missed forever but I’m so thankful she’s with Uncle Denis and Grams and Gramps singing and dancing in heaven together! 

There are so many good memories I have with Chere. Wonderful parties, Sunday dinners with family and lots of laughter.  Chere loved her family, whether or not everyone agreed with each other, it didn’t matter. Family was family. She is, and will be missed. I’m comforted knowing she is with her love  Denis, who I affectionately called “Pops”  along with Gram and Gramps. Pain free and dancing in Heaven. 

We are so sorry for your loss,  the heartache never goes away but the memories will always stay.I have fond memories of your mom at our home in Calgary, backyard barbecues  and our trips to Disney  and staying with your mom’s family in Simi Valley.  She will truly be missed by all. The Jackson Family.

Grandma came to watch me compete on the team at the OU show. 

 I remember the one summer I worked for Aunt Cher . I helped Aunt Cher cleaning the model homes. I stay in the house we drove to work every day . She loved to play Neal Diamond!  When I was very young uncle Dennis and Aunt Cher would take me everywhere. Camping,Las Vegas , skiing . I was the experiment to judge if they wanted kids . They still decided to have Shanna and Teresa  anyways . I wish that I had stayed more in touch but I will always have those fond memories. Rip Aunt Cher love Danny 

What a ball of life she was! So welcoming to anyone and everyone! She is going to be missed by so, so, so many. 

Chere always went out of her way to make me feel welcome.  A sentiment I have and will always carry with me.  Everlasting peace upon you, Chere.  Love, strength and peace to your dear family and to everyone you’ve touched along the way.  

Mom, my favorite memory of you was when we visited Amsterdam.  The Red-Light District Canal Wine and Cheese Evening Cruise was quite entertaining!  Our shock at “marijuana” actually being a menu item someone can purchase in the café we ate at!  Oh, and least we forget, you sprawled out on the street, falling from laughing so hard and not seeing the trolly tracks in the ground!  That was the best trip you and I ever took.  I inherited my love of travel from you.  Thank you for the wonderful memories we made.  I love you.  Until we see each other again…  Shannah

OBITUARY

Chere Elna Murray

12 September, 1947 – 5 March, 2022

Stonebriar Funeral Home and Cremation Services

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