Cheryl Vogler Franus passed away peacefully and surrounded by her family Sept. 13, 2024, at the age of 77 at Celebration Villa of Chippewa.

Born Jan. 1, 1947, in Ellwood City, to the late Wilbur "Bill" and Ethel "Delores" Jessop Vogler, Cheryl had the designation of being the Ledger's First Baby of the New Year, 1947. She graduated from Riverside High School in 1964 and Clarion University. She married Gerald "Jerry" Franus on June 16, 1973. A beloved retired school librarian and cherished community member, Cheryl spent more than 37 years in the Ellwood City Area School District, first as the Elementary Librarian and then as the Library Media Specialist at Lincoln High School, where she also co-sponsored Y-Teens many years. Cheryl also contributed her expertise to various local and statewide educational library committees and boards. An active member of Park Alliance Church in Ewing Park, Cheryl formerly served as treasurer and taught Sunday school. She was also a former member of the Junior Women's Club.

Her caring influence was also evident in her personal life as she was a devoted caretaker for her three beloved grandchildren for 13 years, taking great pride in supporting their athletic pursuits from the sidelines of countless t-ball, softball and volleyball games.

Cheryl had many personal interests that enriched her life. While she was lucky to have enjoyed many travel adventures, including a trip to Alaska and two Caribbean cruises, she especially cherished her time spent vacationing with her family at Van Buren Point on Lake Erie in New York and at her cousins' home in Hollywood, Fla. Her home was a testament to her personality and style; she was known for her treasured collection of elephant items, and the Asian art and furniture throughout her home reflected her eclectic tastes and cultural appreciation. She found particular joy in tending to her backyard koi fish pond and spending time reading, sipping iced tea and visiting with neighbors and loved ones on her welcoming front porch.

Cheryl is survived by her husband of 51 years, Jerry Franus; her daughter and son-in-law, Brooke Franus and Lee Schmidt, of Pittsburgh; her son and daughter-in-law, Blake and Mira Franus, of Ellwood City; two sisters, Maureen (Lynn) Smilek and Susan Vogler, both of Ellwood City; her grandchildren, Korynn, Kambry and Kasen Franus; and a niece, Sheri Petrak-Maine.

Friends will be received Wednesday, Sept. 18, from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Joseph A. Tomon, Jr. Funeral Home & Crematory, 97 Grim Ave., Ellport. A memorial service will follow at 7 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions can be made in Cheryl's name to the Ellwood City Public Library, 415 Lawrence Ave., Ellwood City, PA 16117. (ellwoodcitylibrary.com/support/)

Cheryl Vogler Franus will be deeply missed but fondly remembered for her dedication to education, the profound impact she had on the lives of those around her and the legacy of love and learning she leaves behind.