Cheryl Ann Bay passed away on Saturday, January 20, 2024, at her home after a 13 year battle with cancer. Cheryl was born on September 15, 1953, the eldest of three children to parents Ron and Evon Radabaugh in Clare, Michigan. She took her role as sister and daughter seriously, her love for them was limitless.
Cheryl graduated from Farwell High School in 1971. After her school years, Cheryl thrived on the stage. She took on lead roles in community theater performances, especially enjoying her time at Houghton Lake summer stock, along with CMU and Mid-Michigan Community College performances that included dinner theater at the Doherty Hotel in Clare.
Cheryl married her sweetheart and best friend Lynn Bay on July 15, 1972, and recently celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary last year with their children and grandchildren by their sides. Their love story taught their children that life is truly about experiences and memories, in which moments held most dear are the ones shared with those you love. She was passionate about family and friends but also enjoyed several creative outlets. She was an avid gardener who found respite from the hustle and bustle of shuttling kids with peaceful mornings weeding in the raised flower beds. Cheryl was also an artist with stained glass, participating in several local workshops, special projects for family and friends, and restoring church windows with delicate precision.
Cheryl was a devoted mother and grandmother, never missing the next sporting event, performance, or awards banquet. She was their loudest cheerleader and greatest advocate, each of her children considered her their best friend. Cheryl was a dedicated friend to many, always taking time for morning coffee talks and garden walks.
Cheryl owned and managed a variety of rental properties in Central Michigan for over 30 years. For her retirement, she worked long days at Birch Valley Golf Course and enjoyed reconnecting with old friends and their impromptu visits on the back deck. Cheryl had a beloved group of regulars there that became integral members of the family business.
When she wasn’t working at the golf course, she may have been trying her luck at the slot machines with friends at the casino. The week after Labor Day each year was a protected and cherished time for Cheryl, as it meant spending an extended weekend at Wheatland Music and Arts Festival. You could find her in the same spot each year, sitting with dear friends by the Airstream after working the Spud Crew with CACC, browsing through the artist tents, and dancing late into the night to Cajun music at the pavilion. Her infectious smile, laughter, and light will forever be missed but will surely live on through those she shared life with.
Cheryl is survived by her husband of 51 years Lynn of Lake, MI, her son Jason Bay and fiance Michelle of North Branch, MI, son Joshua Bay and wife Amber of Lake, MI, daughter Lindsey Selby and husband Chad of Rapid City, MI, six grandchildren; Jordan, Keegan, Balin, Braxton, Della, and Arianna, great-grandson Bryson Lynn Bay, her parents Evon and Ron Radabaugh of Barryton, MI, brother Shawn and wife Trish of FL, and her sweet sister Shelly of Barryton, MI.
Honoring Cheryl’s wishes, a cremation has taken place. A celebration of her life will take place at The Doherty Hotel in Clare, the date has not yet been determined. You are invited to share your memories and condolences online at https://www.stephenson-wyman.com. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Stephenson-Wyman Funeral Home in Farwell and Clare.