Cheryl Jean Vandevander, 61, of McDowell, Virginia passed away, Saturday, May 11, 2019 at her home.

She was born February 26, 1958 in Staunton, a daughter of the late Virginia Mae (Mullenax) and William Dale Puffenbarger. On October 20, 1978, she married Bobby J. Vandevander.

A teacher's aide at Highland County Public Schools, Cheryl will be remembered for her love of working with children.

She enjoyed working alongside her husband on the farm, gardening, and taking care of animals, especially her beloved "kitties". Constantly cooking, Cheryl made sure no one left the house hungry and baked her specialty chocolate chip cookies and cherry pie. She also never missed a family reunion and shared lots of food at each event. She enjoyed reading, visiting the Highland County Public Library, crocheting, watching "Survivor" every week and decorating for Christmas, her favorite holiday.

Cheryl also attended The Highland County Fair each year, not missing a single night. Above all, she loved attending church at Jerusalem Chapel and reading her Bible every night until she was unable to do so.

Cheryl is survived by her husband of 40 years, Bobby J. Vandevander; daughter, Renee Brooks Vandevander and husband, Charles Straub of Monterey; son, Robert Dale Vandevander and wife, Dorothy Stephenson of Monterey; step-daughters, Tricia Vandevander and Lena "Cookie" Vandevander; brother, Alan Puffenbarger and wife, Darlene of Forks of the Water; as well as five step-grandchildren.

A funeral service will be held 2 p.m., Saturday, May 18, 2019 at Obaugh Funeral Home with pastor Denny Sites officiating. Burial will follow in Blue Grass Cemetery.

The family will receive friends 6-8 p.m., Friday, May 17 at the funeral home.

Active pallbearers will be Charlie Straub, Bradan Snodgrass, Devan Snodgrass, Ben Hightower, Matthew Siron, Garnet Siron, Austin Whetzel, Trent Whetzel and Jared Whetzel.

Honorary pallbearers will be friends and family in attendance.

Memorial donations may be sent to the Highland County Public Library, P. O. Box 519, Monterey, Va. 24465 or to Blue Grass Cemetery, 3042 Blue Grass Valley Road, Blue Grass, Va. 24413.