Cheryl Carmen Golden

Cheryl Carmen Golden was born on March 6, 1945, in Vancouver, Washington, to Carmie and Imogene Smith. She was raised in the Spokane Valley of Washington alongside her five siblings: Lavonne, Janelle, Kenneth, Tracy, and Robin. From an early age, Cheryl was known for her determination, creativity, and love of music and learning.

She graduated from West Valley High School in 1963 and went on to attend Hardin-Simmons University in Abilene, Texas. Cheryl earned a Certificate of Dental Hygiene from the OHSU School of Dentistry, completed her Bachelor’s Degree at Portland State University and additional work towards her Master’s Degree - an educational journey that reflected her lifelong commitment to growth and service.

In 1970, a car accident rendered Cheryl a paraplegic. She steadfastly rejected the label of “disabled,” living her life with independence, courage, and adventure. Before the accident, she joined Mazamas Club and completed her first rock climb. She loved to ski, both before and after the accident and never allowed physical limitations to define her spirit or her ambitions.

Cheryl devoted much of her professional life to education, teaching in the Dental Hygiene Program at Mt. Hood Community College. She was a respected instructor and mentor until her retirement at the age of 55.

In the 1973, Cheryl married Gary Golden in Portland, Oregon. Their marriage was cut short by Gary’s passing in 1976. Cheryl never remarried, but she remained deeply connected to family, friends, and her faith community throughout her life.

A faithful Christian, Cheryl attended Mt. Hood Christian Center in Gresham, Oregon. Music was a constant source of joy for her—she sang in church choirs from childhood and remained closely connected to her church youth group friends from Spokane throughout her life.

In retirement, Cheryl stayed active and creative, enjoying crafts such as bookmaking and quilting. She loved to travel throughout the United States and loved Cannon Beach, Oregon, which held a special place in her heart. She was also a devoted cat companion to her beloved Amos and Freddie.

Cheryl was a cherished sister and a favorite aunt to 14 nieces and nephews, who will remember her for her warmth, humor, and unwavering encouragement. There were also many grand nieces and nephews and a few great-grand nieces and nephews.

She is survived by her siblings and siblings-in-law: Lavonne Burke (John, deceased), Janelle Anderson (Paul), Kenneth Smith (Faith), Tracy Smith (Barbara), and Robin Bein (John).

Cheryl passed away on December 20, 2025, in Gresham, Oregon. Her life stands as a testament to resilience, faith, and the quiet strength of a woman who lived fully and on her own terms.

A Celebration of Life will take place on Saturday, January 17, 2026 from 2 pm to 4 pm at Wood Village City Hall and Civic Center, 24200 NE Halsey St, Wood Village, OR 97060.