Cheryl Diane Martin, born on December 27, 1961, in Cambridge, Maryland, passed away on November 10, 2025. She married her high school sweetheart, Perry Martin, on August 11, 1979, in Millbourne, Pennsylvania.
Cheryl's life was marked by her deep love and support for her family. She was an inspiring mother to her sons, Gabe (Ellen) Martin and Perry Martin, and a doting grandmother to her grandsons, Wesley, Reese, Blake, and Mackenlei. Cheryl cherished moments spent with them, often sharing stories of her own athletic accomplishments, which served to motivate and inspire her loved ones.
With a degree in business administration and a steadfast commitment to her family, Cheryl was both the backbone of her household and a role model to her children. Her personality was a blend of generosity, strength, humor, kindness, and patience, all enriched by what she affectionately termed "Philly brotherly love." Her intelligence and organizational skills kept her family united and encouraged throughout life's ups and downs.
She was a dedicated and passionate individual who left a profound impact on those around her, particularly through her longstanding career at Kansas State University. Over the span of more than 25 years, Cheryl contributed to agricultural and educational publications, tirelessly working to serve and enhance the campus community.
Cheryl’s many achievements as an athlete
during high school, excelling in basketball and volleyball, drew the attention of numerous recruiters. As a breast cancer survivor, her resilience shone brightly, inspiring others with her strength.
Outside of her professional and family life, Cheryl enjoyed various hobbies that reflected her multifaceted personality. She had a passion for sewing, antiquing, and gardening, as well as being an exceptional cook. Her commitment to her church and community was evident through her volunteer work and her desire to spread kindness wherever she could.
Cheryl is also survived by her sister, Michele Bradley-Saunders; and her brothers, Charles Jolley, McKinley Jolley, and William Jolley. She was preceded in death by her parents, McKinley Kent and Mary Elizabeth Jolley, and her brother-in-law, Timothy Saunders.
A visitation in memory of Cheryl Diane Martin will be held on Monday, November 24, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Johnson & Mass-Hinitt Funeral Home in Junction City, Kansas. The funeral service will take place Tuesday, November 25, 2025, at 10:30 AM at Faith Tabernacle Apostolic Church in Junction City. Cheryl will then be laid to rest during a graveside service at Kansas Veterans' Cemetery in Manhattan, Kansas, at 1:00 PM on the same day.