Cherie Maybelle Groom

Cherie Maybelle Groom November 19, 1930 – June 7, 2026 It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Cherie Maybelle Groom, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and dear friend, who left this world peacefully at her home on June 7, 2026, at the age of 95. Born on November 19, 1930, in San Francisco, California, Cherie was a beacon of warmth and kindness, whose life was a testament to love, friendship, and family. Cherie was born to Maybelle Perry (Ray Caldwell) and Bernie Ball, who, along with her devoted husband of 54 years, Donald Groom, predeceased her. Cherie and Donald's love story began in Seattle, Washington, where they exchanged vows on February 20, 1954, at Holy Family. Together, they built a life filled with love and laughter, welcoming four children into their hearts: Deborah Richardson (Robert Richardson), Victoria Yanasak (Kevin Yanasak), Gordon Groom (Denise Groom), and David Groom (Linh Groom). Cherie's legacy lives on through her nine cherished grandchildren: Jennifer Tepker (Kevin Tepker), Christina Cyrus (Tracey Cyrus), Jared Carmody (Mandy Carmody), Nicole Tucker (Austin Tucker), Alexandra Groom, Paxton Farias (Eric Farias), Alicia Sims (Chris Sims), Elijah Groom, and Kiana Groom. Her family expanded further with the joy of ten great-grandchildren: Marley Cyrus, Collin Tepker, Owen Tepker, Taylor Cyrus, Katelyn Tepker, Eli Tepker, Kacie Cyrus, Roman Cyrus, Damian Sims, and Olivia Sims. A graduate of West Seattle High School, Cherie pursued secretarial training and worked as a private secretary for notable companies including Safeway, Boeing, and Federal Pipe and Tank. Her career later took her to SeaFirst, where she served as a dedicated bank teller for over 20 years. Cherie's professional life was complemented by her role as a homemaker, where she found joy in nurturing her family. Cherie found immense joy in her hobbies and interests, which reflected her zest for life and adventure. Together with Donald, Cherie cultivated lifelong friendships with Bob and Vivian Randall, sharing countless weekends at their Timberlakes Community vacation property in Shelton, Washington. Through camping, water skiing, and evenings by the campfire, Cherie taught her children the importance of family and togetherness. Cherie and Donald also shared a passion for square dancing with Joan and Ed Knutson, filling their early years of marriage with laughter and dance. Cherie's love for travel saw her exploring numerous national parks and even venturing overseas to Europe. In her later years, she cherished her adventures with Muriel Jackson, embarking on short trips to nearby cities. Her competitive spirit shone in her love for pinochle and other card games, which she enjoyed with friends Muriel and Vince Jackson. Cherie's creative spirit was evident in her crocheting, where she crafted beautiful blankets, hot pads, and kitchen towels. Her collections of vintage milk jugs, porcelain clown figures, and Precious Moments figurines were a testament to her appreciation for beauty and history. Cherie's warmth and kindness were hallmarks of her character. She possessed a rare gift for making everyone feel welcomed and known, always eager to learn names and connections. Her ability to forge deep and lasting friendships was unparalleled, and she made it a priority to spend quality time with her loved ones. In addition to her immediate family, Cherie leaves behind Linh's family and numerous friends who became family over the years. She was affectionately known as Mama Groom to many who visited Center Cycle, where she extended her warmth and hospitality to all. Cherie Maybelle Groom's life was a tapestry of love, laughter, and cherished memories. Her legacy of kindness and friendship will continue to inspire those who knew her. She will be deeply missed but forever remembered in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know her. A celebration of Cherie's life will be held at a later date, where family and friends will gather to honor her remarkable journey. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Cherie's name to a charity of choice, in keeping with her generous spirit.