Cheryl Lynn Gilliland, lovingly known as Che and Cheri, born July 28, 1963, peacefully joined God and her loved ones in our next place on Jan. 29, 2016, in New Orleans.

Cheri was born a child of wonder, joy and adventure. Her positive energy, inner light, love and ability to touch all she encountered with compassion, enthusiasm and dedication were true gifts to all. She was a woman known for her inspirational free spirit and her passion for teaching, peace and justice, environmental activism, women’s empowerment, family and God. Che followed her dreams and goals, helping and protecting our earth and humankind. Her gifts will continue through all who knew and loved her and her many students at OVE.

She is survived by her mother, Linda Pearson; her father, Jim Gilliland; her sister, Gwen Gilliland; and Gwen’s children, Liam and Kenzi Johnston.

Remembrances in her name can be given to the charity of your choice.

To celebrate Che’s life, please join us at 2 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 28, beginning at Town Park Pavilion with a Mardi Gras style procession to the Coupeville Recreation Center, 901 NW Alexander Street.