She was born in Whitehaven, TN on October 24, 1959 to Robert and Joyce Barham. Bob and Joyce later moved their family to Clarksdale, Ms and then to Independence, MS to Joyceland Farm where Cheryl spent the rest of her life even raising her own children in a home on the farm.
Cheryl was preceded in death by her grandparents, parents and her only brother, David.
She is survived by husband of 44 years Kenneth, daughter Kristina Dorr (Michael), son Joshua Denley (Hannah), grandchildren Andrew Dorr, Sawyer Denley, Shelby Dorr, Myles Denley and Jack Stephens, and 2 sisters, Nancy Darnell (Ralph) and Amanda Jones (Milton).
Throughout her adult life Cheryl spent her career serving God by serving others. She ministered to many young students through a successful preschool ministry she started at her church which is still a vital part of the Independence community. She also served her peers with careers in other settings, but she has spent the last 25 years serving the United Methodist Church as the Secretary to the superintendent and staff resource. Throughout her career she has served in hundreds of churches leading trainings, filling pulpits, offering resources for a healthier church and more. Her ministry will continue to touch people’s lives for years to come.
When Cheryl was not serving the church, she enjoyed traveling with her family, she was an avid reader and an excellent cook. She enjoyed having people in her home to share a meal or celebrate a holiday or special occasion.
Visitation will be Friday, February 23rd from 5:00-8:00pm at Brantley Funeral home in Olive Branch. 6875 Cockrum Street Olive Branch, MS 38654.
Celebration of Life Service will be at Maples Memorial UMC on Saturday, February 24th at 10:00am in Olive Branch. 745 Goodman Rd, Olive Branch, MS 38654.
Internment will be at Mt Zion Cemetery in Independence.
The family will continue the celebration of her life at Independence UMC for a meal following the burial.
If you’d like to honor the life of Cheryl Denley the family suggests making a donation in her memory to one of the following organizations that she worked with and cared for deeply.
Independence United Methodist Church
Matthew 21 Homeless Ministry
Camp Lake Stephens
UMCOR
