Cheryl Lee Hebblewaite

Cheryl Lee Hebblewaite, age 79, of Storrs, CT, peacefully passed away on August 22, 2025, at Windham Hospital after a brief illness, holding the hand of her loving husband. 

Born on May 27, 1946, in Manchester, CT, to Fred and Anne Tilden, Cheryl lived a life full of love, laughter, and devotion to her family and friends.

 She is survived by her beloved husband of 59 years, Russell; her daughters Tracy Maheu of Ashford, CT, and Karen (Richard) Zajac of Coventry, CT; her cherished grandchildren Chris (Heidi) Maheu, Erica Maheu, Noah Zajac, and LeeAnne Zajac; and her adored great grandchildren Beckham and Remington Maheu. Cheryl is also survived by her sisters Patricia (Joseph) Piatek and Janet (Tom) Conley; nieces and nephews Tom Jr. (Julie) Conley, Jennifer Piatek, Julie (Mark) DeCandia, Shannon (Spencer) Piatek, Sean Piatek (her godson), and Jamie (Chad) Bailey; as well as several great and great-great nieces and nephews. 

She was predeceased by her parents, her brother William Tilden and sister-in-law Elizabeth. 

Cheryl’s circle of love extended beyond family. She leaves behind dear friends Walter and Linda Dann, Blanche Mills, Denise Gorka, Carol Lindlau, and many more who shared countless memories with her.

She loved traveling and camping with her husband, often accompanied by their faithful cocker spaniel, Maggie. Together, they made several cross-country trips in their motor home. Cheryl also enjoyed bus trips with her special friends, playing bingo, birdwatching, working on puzzles, visiting casinos, and watching NASCAR. Above all, she treasured time with her grandchildren, never missing a sporting event, play, concert, or special event. Her great-grandchildren held a very special place in her heart, always bringing joy to her days. 

Cheryl retired from the University of Connecticut’s Purchasing Department after nearly 20 years of service, where she made many lifelong friendships. 

Calling hours will be held on Wednesday, August 27, 2025, from 6 to 8 PM at Potter Funeral Home, 456 Jackson St, Willimantic, CT. Friends and family will gather the following morning on Thursday, August 28, 2025, from 10:30 to 11 AM at the funeral home, and then procced in procession to the New Mansfield Cemetery for burial. To share a memory or sign the online memorial guestbook, please visit www.potterfuneralhome.com Cheryl was a cancer survivor, and in honor of her memory the family asks that memorial donations be made In lieu of flowers to the American Cancer Society.