Cheryl Boyce Sands

With profound sadness and deep love, we announce the passing of Cheryl Boyce Sands of Tunkhannock, Pennsylvania, who passed away peacefully on the morning of July 24, 2026, surrounded by the love of those whose lives she touched so deeply.

A lifelong and faithful member of Tunkhannock United Methodist Church, Cheryl put her faith into action through countless hours of service. She lovingly created handmade items for church bazaars, helped with the annual Tunkhannock carnival and county fair, assisted with the Christmas Nativity, and could always be counted on to lend a hand wherever it was needed.

Extending her faith into her professional life, Cheryl lived a life defined by compassion, service, and unwavering devotion to her family and community. She dedicated much of her professional life to educating and mentoring young people as a Home Economics teacher in the Tunkhannock School District. Her classroom was more than a place to learn practical skills-it was a place where students found encouragement, confidence, and a teacher who genuinely cared about their success.

Often, after teaching a full day in the classroom, Cheryl continued her calling as an educator by providing homebound instruction to dozens of local high school students. Whether helping a student recover from illness or overcome life's unexpected challenges, she met each one with patience, kindness, and the steadfast belief that every child deserved love, respect, and the opportunity to succeed.

Her commitment to serving others extended well beyond education. Cheryl was a devoted volunteer at the local soup kitchen, quietly giving her time and heart to neighbors in need. She never sought recognition; she simply believed in caring for others-one meal, one conversation, and one act of kindness at a time.

At home, Cheryl found joy in quilting, creating beautiful works stitched with remarkable skill, creativity, and love. Many family members and friends proudly display her masterpieces on their beds, walls, and tables. Every quilt reflected the care she poured into everything she did and remains a lasting gift-a warm reminder of her generous spirit and the love she stitched into every piece.

Above all, Cheryl was the heart of her family. She was the keystone of the Sands, Boyce, and Palmer families, bringing generations together with her strength, wisdom, and unconditional love. She celebrated life's happiest moments, carried others through its most difficult ones, and made everyone feel welcomed, valued, and deeply loved. Her home was a place of comfort, laughter, enduring memories, and an open door where everyone was welcome.

Cheryl leaves behind a legacy of service, generosity, and quiet strength that will continue to inspire all who knew her. Though her presence will be profoundly missed, the lessons she taught, the lives she touched, and the love she shared will remain with her family, friends, former students, her church family, and the community forever.

Her life was a beautiful testament to kindness, humility, and selfless love. She measured her life not by accolades or recognition, but by the people she helped, the family she cherished, the faith she lived, and the love she freely gave. Those who were fortunate enough to know Cheryl will carry her memory in their hearts forever, finding comfort in the countless lives she enriched and the enduring example she set through a life so graciously and generously lived.

Family and friends are invited to attend Cheryl's funeral services which will be held on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, at 11:00 AM from the Tunkhannock United Methodist Church, 4 Church St., Tunkhannock, PA 18657. Interment will follow in Sunnyside Cemetery, Tunkhannock.

A viewing will be held on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, from 6:00 PM until 8:00 PM at the Marcho, Sheldon, and Kukuchka Funeral Home & Cremation Care, 73 W. Tioga St., Tunkhannock, PA 18657 and also from 10:00 AM until the time of service on Wednesday at the church.

Memorial donations can be made in Cheryl's name to the Tunkhannock United Methodist Church, 4 Church St., Tunkhannock, PA 18657 or Hospice of the Sacred Heart, 30 E.D. Preate Drive, Suite 108, Moosic, PA 18507.

"Well done, good and faithful servant." - Matthew 25:23