Her life was blessed with Peter, her husband of 60 years; children, Cynthia Cheatham (Deane), Robert (deceased), James (Michele); grandchildren, Martin Deane Cheatham IV (deceased), Caroline Schiele (Daniel), Clayton Cheatham(Savannah), Elizabeth Clay, Katherine Clay, Justine Clay, and Philip Clay; and four great-grandchildren, Stella and Beau Schiele and Adeline and August Cheatham.
The post-war years saw many moves because of her father's pursuit of a career with the CAA (FAA). Oklahoma City, Seattle, Boise, Kansas City, Alexandria, VA, and Minneapolis, where she graduated from Edina H.S.
She attended C.W. Post College, where she met Peter and married after he was commissioned in the Marine Corps. Their first duty station was Glencoe, GA, then New River, NC, where Cindy was born. While Pete was in Vietnam, she and Cindy spent time in Brussels, Belgium, before returning to Baltimore, MD, where Robert was born. Next move Columbia, MD, where James was born, and then Richmond, VA, where roots were firmly established.
After a sailing trip to the Pacific Northwest, sailing became a true love. Many oceans, bays, and creeks were explored on many different boats. Retirement was spent living in the Northern Neck of Virginia near the Chesapeake Bay. Along with a love of sailing was a love of travel. She and Pete were fortunate to travel to many countries of the world.
Faith in God and love for her family were her foundation.
The family will receive friends from 9:30 am to 10:30 am on Monday, November 2, 2026 at Woody Funeral Home, 9271 Shady Grove Rd., Mechanicsville, VA 23116 with a memorial service to begin at 10:30 am followed by a 12:00 pm graveside service at Greenwood Memorial Park, 12609 Patterson Ave., Richmond, VA 23238.
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to New Community Church or The Women's Club of White Stone.
