Cheryl Diane Stearns, 71, of Carbondale, Illinois, passed away peacefully at home January 22, 2025. She was born on August 5, 1953, in Tell City, Indiana, to Kenneth and Thelma (Sibrel) Huck. Cheryl graduated from Tell City High School and went on to attend a local vocational school, where she earned a degree in accounting/bookkeeping.

Cheryl spent several years working as a tax preparer, starting at H&R Block in Murphysboro and later returning to the profession with Jackson Hewitt. She found great joy in her work, and for her, it wasn’t just about numbers—it was about the people. She formed lasting relationships with those she worked with and for, and many of her coworkers became as close as family.

Cheryl was deeply proud of her family. She is survived by her brother, Keith (Marsha) Huck of Tell City; her four children, Tara (Nathan) Cherry, Julie (Keith) Bruce, Kenneth Tiernan, and Kyle Tiernan, all of Carbondale; and her beloved nieces, Kacey Huck of DeSoto Il and Heather(Randy)Howell of Tell City, Indiana. Cheryl’s greatest joy was her family, and she leaves behind 11 grandchildren (Terri, Chelsey, Jason, Dylan, Caleb, LiliBeth, Ryan, Ben, Andrew, Rosie & Tiffany.  10 great-grandchildren, Nevaeh, Cheyenne, Anthony, Franky, Jason, Olivia, Noel, Kennedi, Joshua, and Waverly,  all of whom she adored.

She was preceded in death by her husband Gene Stearns, her parents, Kenneth and Thelma Huck, and her brother, Kenneth C. Huck.

Cheryl’s warmth, kindness, and love for others will be greatly missed by all who knew her. She touched many lives, leaving behind a legacy of love and care.

Final arrangements lovingly entrusted to Southern Cremation and Burial Services of Murphysboro, Illinois.

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