With love and sadness, we share the passing of Cheryl Kaye Farabee, who died on April 2, 2025, at the age of 60. A devoted mother, proud grandmother, daughter, sister, and loyal friend, Cheryl was a deeply caring, hardworking, and endlessly creative person whose life left a meaningful impact on all who knew her.

Cheryl was born in Tacoma, Washington, on January 13, 1965. Just a month later, her family moved to Curtis, Nebraska, where she spent her early childhood. At 14, she returned to Washington and moved to Benton City, later settling in nearby Richland, which became her home for the remainder of her life.

Her greatest joy in life was her family, especially her son Derrek and grandson Jameson. She cherished the time she spent with Jameson – whether they were driving the Benton City loop, creating arts and crafts, heading to the park, or simply enjoying the outdoors together. Their bond was one of her proudest treasures.

Cheryl dedicated over 20 years of service to the Washington State University Tri-Cities library, where she supported students, faculty, and patrons with warmth and reliability. Later, she joined Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, where she contributed to research efforts that she took pride in knowing made a difference in the world.

Cheryl was also a tireless entrepreneur, building a variety of small businesses over the years. Her work included house cleaning, interior plant care, event-based espresso and concessions – often out of her own mobile espresso truck – and even helping her son with his paper route. Her strong work ethic, cleverness, and determination helped her carve out her own path and provide for her family.

A passionate animal lover, Cheryl opened her heart and home to all kinds of creatures throughout her life – including cats, dogs, guinea pigs, fish, hermit crabs, gerbils, and even a bobcat in need. She never hesitated to give animals a safe place to land.

She was also a true plant enthusiast with a remarkable knowledge of indoor and outdoor greenery. Over the years, she cultivated an impressive and ever-growing collection of plants. Her home was filled with vibrant life – each plant carefully tended to, and many lovingly shared with others. It brought her deep joy and a sense of peace.

Cheryl loved being in nature – especially camping in the Pacific Northwest, where she found solace in the quiet beauty of the outdoors. She also enjoyed road trips, often traveling cross-country, and had a special love for motorcycles and the freedom of the open road.

Cheryl is survived by her son Derrek; her grandson Jameson; her parents, Norris and Kathy; her stepparents, Kathy and Brian; her brother Rod; her sisters Lori and Cindy; her close companion Tim; her former spouse, Lee; and countless others whose lives she touched with her kindness, strength, and generosity.