Jerri Lee (Cole) Cheek

Jerri Lee Cheek, aged 69, passed away on July 28, 2020, in the comfort of her home. Jerri was the grounder of the family. She took care of everything, and everyone. Every friend, nurse, and colleague that was near was always asked how they were, and if they needed anything. Jerri was the care taker through and through. She put her head down, rolled her sleeves up, and always did was she needed to be done. 

Jerri was born May 20, 1951, in Carlsbad, New Mexico, to William Bert Cole and Georgia Lee Surlock Cole. She grew up and attended school in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Jerri grew up next to her brothers, William Farrel Cole (W.F) and Richard Cole. These three were very close growing up. Richie (Richard) was her hero and her best friend. She looked up to her brothers her entire life. They safeguarded her, and their opinions always swayed strong with Jerri. These three stood strong, proud, and did whatever it took for their family.

At the age of 17, Jerri met Ronald Allen Cheek. Within weeks of their meetings, they were wedded on December 7, 1967. Ron was enlisted in the United States Navy, and weeks after saying vows was deployed to Vietnam. Specifically on January 26, 1968, Ron was deployed. Jerri, rolled up her sleeves, and made a home for Ron to come back to. He served his duties, and was at one point lost in contact with Jerri as a  result of a messenger plane being shot down. Despite all obstacles thrown at them, fate reunited them at the arrival of Ron’s feet back on U.S. soil. 
From then on, Jerri and Ron began their life together. Ron was a talented artist and together they traveled the country selling Ron’s artwork under the name: Ron Cheek Artist of the Great West. Together they raised their daughter, Tina Vielleux. Jerri's strong suit always rang true with family. She was the one that made it all happen. And would stand tall next to her loved ones while she did it. She always carried the shine with it. Under Ron’s arm they awed crowds, and made eyes follow. Her and Ron were very involved with their daughter Tina, grandson RJ, and great granddaughter, Nauhla. 

Jerri shared her love of artwork with her husband but displayed it in fields of gardens. Beautiful lilies and roses surrounded her patios and backyards. Ron would sit and paint Jerri as she nurtured and tended to her rows of gardens. Everything these two touched turned beautiful. Jerri poured her soul in her home, making it a home everyone wanted to be at and a table everyone wanted a plate to indulge in. Most importantly Jerri always stood proud and true. Loyal to the bone, she was. 

Jerri is survived by her loving daughter, Tina Veilleux of Idaho Falls, ID; brother, Richie (Donna) Cole of Thayne, WY; grandson Richard Veilleux (RJ) of Idaho Falls, ID; and one great granddaughter Nauhla Veilleux of Idaho Falls, ID. Ron survived this earth 20 days before reuniting in heaven with his beloved wife. 

Jerri is proceeded in death by her parents; and her beloved brother, William Ferrel (W.F) Cole. Though we cry tears of sadness for the loss of our loved ones, the angels weep tears of joy for the return of theirs.

Ron and Jerri will be laid to rest together at 11:00 a.m. Monday, August 31, 2020, at Ammon Cemetery in Ammon, Idaho. Family and Friends are invited to gather at Wood Funeral Home East Side, 963 South Ammon Road at 10:30 a.m. to escort them to the cemetery. Military Rites will be performed by the Bonneville County Veterans Memorial Team and the Navy Honor Guard in remembrance and salute to Ronald A. Cheek. We invite all family, loved ones and friends to gather with us on this day of remembrance. Food will be served at the family home following the service.

Jerri’s impact on this earth will be greatly carried by her loved ones, but none of us are oblivious to the rejoice that is happening in heaven. She blessed this world purely through her love and laughter. Although the world is left shook, and her loved ones carry her lose greatly. The celebration and stories continue on. Her laugh will ring true in her loved ones ears and she will be missed, but never forgotten. May you rest in peace.