Cheryl M. "Sheri" LaVancher

Cheryl M. LaVancher, age 77, of Ovid, passed away on May 28, 2025, at Geneva General Hospital after a long period of declining health.

Born on February 14, 1948, in Tioga, Pennsylvania, she was the daughter of the late Robert and Jeraldine (Enderle) Wilcox. She moved to Ovid, NY in 1971 with her growing family and continued to call Ovid her home until her passing. Cheryl’s vibrant spirit shone through in all she did. An inspiration to all who knew her, Cheryl faced lifelong medical challenges, and defied doctors’ expectations time and time again through her faith and determination. No matter what, she always found a way to show love and care to others, most notably through her love of cooking. Cheryl was known for her lavish dishes, preparing delicious sides and treats that brought comfort and joy to her family and friends. Each dish was a testament to her thoughtfulness, as she took the time to ensure that everyone she cooked for felt celebrated and cherished.

Cheryl also showed her love for others through her crafting and sewing, creating countless personalized hand-made crafts to show others they were special to her. Additionally, Cheryl’s green thumb could always be counted on; her gardening skills were awe-inspiring as she could bring any plant back to life.

Cheryl's love for all animals was boundless; pets and wildlife alike. During times of struggle, she found joy from her many pets but also from birds and other creatures visiting the feeders she prepared for them. To her, they were family, deeply cared for and cherished.

Cheryl frequently inspired others by sending meaningful, personalized cards for every occasion; celebrating life’s moments with heartfelt messages that brought smiles and warmth to all who received them.

A devoted member of Seneca Community Church, Cheryl found solace and community among her fellow church members, where she shared her love for life and kindness. Her commitment to nurturing relationships extended far and wide, encompassing not only her family but also several close friends who held a special place in her heart.

Cheryl is survived by her children, Becky (Mike) Potts, Robert LaVancher, and Jennifer (Gary) Palmer; grandchildren, Shaun, Brandon, and Dustin (Cadi) Potts, Jesi, Kati and Lani Dresser, Abigail and Drew Palmer, and Cari (Casey) Bastian; great-grandchildren, Emma and Erin Potts, Percy, Aubrey, Jackson, and Madison Potts, and Kyler Landon and Beau Mullen; father of her children, John LaVancher; half-sisters, Karen (Steve) Strange and Carol Keagle, and several close friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; as well as her beloved daughter, Barbara Dresser.

A memorial service honoring Cheryl will be held at 2:00pm on Friday, June 20, 2025, at Seneca Community Church in Romulus, NY. A reception will immediately follow at the church.

The family asks those that would like to make a contribution in Cheryl's memory kindly consider the Beverly Animal Shelter or Seneca Community Church.