Cheri Jeanne Holmes

July 2, 1947 – June 2, 2025

Cheri Jeanne Holmes, beloved mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away on June 2, 2025, just one month shy of her 78th birthday.

Cheri was the loving wife of the late Kenneth Holmes, with whom she shared over 40 years of marriage. Together, they built a life rooted in family, kindness, and service to others. Cheri spent her professional life nurturing children, first as a preschool teacher and later as a dedicated school secretary. Her care and warmth left lasting impressions on countless young lives and families over the years.

Cheri had an extraordinary gift for creating beauty in the world. She was a talented crafter and seamstress, and an incredible cook who found great joy in feeding others. Her kitchen was a place where memories were made, and no one ever left hungry.

Her generosity knew no bounds. Over the years, Cheri quietly and faithfully donated countless Easter baskets, baby items, Christmas stockings, and handmade goods to shelters and families in need. Her giving spirit touched many who may never have known her name but certainly felt her love.

Cheri had a deep belief in the worth of every person. She was open-hearted, accepting, and always made space for others to feel seen, valued, and loved. Her warm smile and generous heart will be remembered by all who knew her.

She is survived by her daughter Kristen Merrell (Tom) and grandchildren Kennedy (Lauren), Sydney, and Kellen (Kevin) – (Lee’s Summit, MO), her daughter Jennifer Hanes (Rob) and grandchildren Darby and Jameson (Texas).

Cheri’s legacy lives on in the lives she touched and the love she so freely gave.

An open-house Celebration of Life will be held in honor of Cheri on Saturday, June 14th from 4:00 to 6:00pm at the Gamber Center in Lee’s Summit, Missouri.