Cheryl L. Rowe

Cheryl Rowe of Lorton, Va., aged 56, passed peacefully into the afterlife in her home on August 22, 2022. Cheryl Lynn Rowe was born on January 4, 1966 in Washington, D.C. to Henry and Grace Rowe (nee Byczynski), the second of the two Rowe children, and the only daughter. Cheryl began life in her childhood home of Annandale, Va. She traveled as a child with her family for two years to London, England, and for three years to Okinawa, Japan. She graduated from W.T. Woodson High School (Fairfax, Va.) in 1983, before obtaining a degree in teaching from Marymount College (Tarrytown, N,Y.) in 1987. Cheryl launched her career by teaching at White Oaks Elementary (Burke, Va.), and taught there for one year, before moving on to service in the federal government. She embarked on her career as a Human Resources specialist with the Department of the Navy, before 'switching sides' to work for the Department of the Army, in the Office of the Administrative Assistant to the Secretary of the Army, where she worked for nearly 20 years. Throughout her years of service, Cheryl was always good-natured and willing to help all, professionally and personally. One co-worker fondly remembered the time Cheryl built a Care Package for her young daughter during her stay in the hospital. Cheryl regularly mentored newer employees, showing them the ropes, and how the office functioned, and was regarded as a "trusted advisor" by her boss. Cheryl lived with her daughter Angelica Rowe in Lorton, Va. from 2001 until the time of her passing. Throughout life, Cheryl followed her passions. She thoroughly enjoyed taking week-long boat cruises with friends, searching for 'the perfect beach' and exploring many islands in the Caribbean. She was an avid baker and culinary artisan, in charge of preparing the Rowe family favorites (Mom's apple pie, cracker stuffing) during the holidays. She was an avid crafter and amateur furniture builder, delighting family and friends with her creations. One memorable piece she built was a nautically-themed, small circular table, complete with a mariner's compass and roped knots for support Casinos were a favorite form of recreation for her, where she enjoyed playing the slot machines. She was a thoughtful gift-giver, searching for just the right gift to delight family and friends. Cheryl advocated for charitable organizations dedicated to supporting active and retired members of the Armed Forces. Cheryl was pre-deceased by her parents, Henry and Grace Rowe (Boothbay, Maine). She is survived by her daughter Angelica Rowe (Lorton, Va.), and brother Christopher Rowe (Ashburn, Va.). In memory of Cheryl, the family suggests a donation to St. Ann's Center for Children, Youth, and Families in Hyattsville, Maryland (stanns.org). St. Ann's was the organization from which Cheryl adopted Angelica, and it holds a special place in our hearts because of that. Additionally, the Rowe family requests you share a special memory of Cheryl with us. Something that brings a laugh or a smile to your face when you think of her. Please e-mail any memory you wish to share to "roweangelica403@gmail.com" or "cbrowe21@gmail.com." To our beloved mother and sister, may you peacefully rest in the arms of the Lord our God, and be reunited with your loving parents Henry and Grace. Our hearts ache from your loss, but are forever smiling from all the goofy, funny, heart-warming adventures we shared in life. Eternally in our minds and hearts, we miss you Cheryl.

Tributes

Cheryl L. Rowe

January 4, 1966 - August 22, 2022