Sheryl Lynn Zappone

Sheryl Lynn Zappone passed away peacefully on November 11, 2025, surrounded completely in love with her family by her side. Born on January 28, 1962, in Texas, Sheryl later made Colorado her home—where she raised her children, spent most of her life, and met the love of her life.

For more than three years, Sheryl bravely battled cancer with unwavering courage, grace, and positivity. She never gave up. Through every moment, she remained a beacon of hope for her husband, children, grandchildren, and everyone who loved her.

Sheryl was the cherished daughter of Wilbert E. Brooks and Charlotte A. Brooks. She was welcomed into heaven by her parents and brother Robert Brooks, and is survived by four loving siblings: Pamela Tompkins, Gerald Brooks, Deborah Cook, and Michael Brooks.

Sheryl shared her life with her husband and true love, Frederick Zappone, with whom she built a beautiful family. She is survived by her four children: Christina Mallo, LaTricia Strange (John McPherson), Rebecca Strickland (Brandon Strickland), and Frederick Zappone Jr. (Amber Zappone). Sheryl was deeply proud of her children—the adults they became, the families they built, and the love they carried forward from her example. Among her greatest joys were her three grandchildren—Skyler Strickland, Tayvon McPherson, and Amiyah McPherson—all of whom she adored with her whole heart.

Sheryl was an extraordinary woman—an amazing mother, wife, homemaker, friend, and so much more. As a stay-at-home mom, she never missed a moment. She attended every event, volunteered in her children’s classrooms, and poured endless love, time, and dedication into raising her family.

Sheryl excelled in every job she ever held, quickly rising to managerial positions. In her early 50s, she returned to school and proudly earned her Associate’s Degree in Social Work, making both the Dean’s List and the Honors List—an achievement she celebrated deeply. During this later chapter of her working life, she met her best friend, Sherri Dupree, with whom she shared countless laughs, memories, and “bestie dates” to DBC.

Sheryl was known for her bright, unforgettable laugh, her fun personality, and her habit of bursting into random songs. She loved the color purple, cheered passionately for the

Minnesota Vikings, cherished time with her family, and enjoyed tea time with her “puddin cup.” She adored loving on her grand-pups and had a deep lifelong love for giraffes, which reflected her gentle and graceful heart.

Her hobbies reflected her creativity and spirit: crocheting, mastering crossword puzzles, watching her favorite shows, cooking, and adventuring. She adored family BBQs, holidays, and most of all, Christmas. Sheryl didn’t always realize it, but she was truly the magic of Christmas for her family.

Above all, Sheryl will always be remembered for her love—boundless, fierce, and constant. She was the best mother, the best wife, the best friend, and the best listener anyone could ask for. She fought her cancer battle with incredible strength and loved her family even harder.

Sheryl never gave up. And now, she is the most beautiful angel in heaven, watching over the family who will forever carry her light. She will be deeply missed and never forgotten, and her family will carry on her beautiful legacy with love, honor, and gratitude.

A Butterfly’s Promise

When the world feels quiet

And the day grows still,

Listen for the softest flutter—

You’ll find her in the gentle wings

Of every butterfly that drifts by.

For she has taken flight

To where pain cannot follow,

Where light wraps gently

Around souls who loved fiercely

And lived with grace.

In every bright butterfly

Dancing on the breeze,

Know that she is near—

Whispering comfort,

Sending love,

Guiding your steps

With the same warm strength

She gave so freely in life.

She has not gone far.

She has simply changed her wings.