Cheryl Leigh McDonald

Cheryl Leigh McDonald, 54, of Swanzey, NH passed away on August 13, 2024 at the Bedford Hills Center. Cheryl followed the guidance of the hospice chaplain to climb “those steps” as she listened to Highway to Heaven. We imagine her free to walk, run and dance with joy..

Cheryl grew up in Greenfield, NH and was a graduate of Crotched Mountain School.

She was so proud of her work at McDonald’s Restaurant, where she had made the 20th anniversary mark. She sometimes joked that being Cheryl McDonald, it was her restaurant. She had good times watching the planes at Keene airport, enjoying friends and activities at Life Art, The YMCA, playing and watching video games with the kids. Cheryl volunteered at More Than a Thrift Shop and always found time to meet with friends. 

Cheryl was a woman of great affection for her family and friends. She had a strong sense of justice and would often speak up for others. She saw herself as a voice for those who could not speak for themselves. She was a loyal friend, never afraid to speak up for herself. Her ability to stick to her position for herself or others was unmatched! She had special phrases and topics she liked to say to each person she cared about.. She enjoyed going out for meals, word puzzles, knitting, watching House Hunters, cooking and games shows. She attended various churches throughout her life, loved Jesus and meeting with people at church. 

Cheryl leaves behind her beloved “intentional family”, Donna and Gary White, their daughter Kim and her husband Tim Carrier and all the family members. As an adult she shared life with a number of caring families and individuals affiliated with Monadnock Developmental Services. She is remembered by her enthusiastic welcome, strong determination and her smile. Cheryl loved to point out that she shared middle names, with her good friend Jan Holland and climbing mountains together!

A Celebration of Cheryl’s Life will be held on Wednesday, August 21, 2024 at Kim &Tim’s home: 27 West Street, Swanzey, NH 03445 from 2 to 4pm. Drop in and share a story!