diáspora y cultura vasca
06/01/2025 - Winnemucca, Nevada, EEUU
(publicado en Sonoma Funeral Home)
With a heart full of love, a sharp wit, and a personality too big for this world, Cheryll Jo Bayler (Olson), passed away on January 6, 2025, at the age of 77. Affectionately known to many as “Chubs,” Cheryll was most proud of her title “Nan”, lovingly bestowed upon her by her grandchildren. She leaves behind a legacy of laughter, generosity, fierce loyalty, and unapologetic honesty.
Born on April 24, 1947, in Winnemucca, Cheryll grew up embracing the values of hard work, laughter, and speaking her mind. A 1965 graduate of Humboldt High School, she began her career at the Star Broiler and later dedicated many years to the State of Nevada Unemployment Office. Cheryll was a proud supporter of her Basque heritage, instilling its rich traditions into her family—a passion that lives on in the hearts of her daughter’s family. Her love for animals, especially her beloved Boston Terriers, was boundless. Cheryll had a heart for helping others, a passion that defined her life and inspired all who knew her. Whether she was raising her family or perfecting her famous sugar cookies, Cheryll brought bold energy and dedication to everything she did.
Cheryll was many things: a loving mom, a devoted “Nan”, a sister, a friend, a master of tough love, and a lifelong champion of "telling it like it is." She was the heartbeat of every family gathering, never hesitating to share her opinion—or an extra slice of pie. Her sass and spirit made her the favorite troublemaker in every room she entered.
She is survived by her children, Rich Higbee, Paige (John) Brooks, and Chris (Bertha Higbee); her grandchildren, Nicole (Kenny) Beeson, Andrew (Olga) Higbee, Joe (Sam) Brooks, Brandi (Treyvon) Brooks, Elisa Higbee, Eric (Darion) Brooks, and Ereanna Higbee; her great-grandchildren, Ryan, Brandon, Cael, Mya, Theodore, Effie, Claire, Sophia, Olivia, and Adia. She was preceded in death by her parents Virgil and Carmen Olson, Sister Doris Tobin, and daughter-in-law Jenny Higbee.
Known for her sayings like, “Sometimes chicken, sometimes chicken shit,” Cheryll taught everyone around her to embrace the moment, love fiercely, and never hold back. Her fearless energy and unmatched humor will forever live on in the hearts of her family, her friends, and anyone lucky enough to share a laugh with her.
A graveside service and celebration of Cheryll’s remarkable life will take place in the spring or summer. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Paul’s Altar Society or the Winnemucca Basque Club in her honor.
Though her voice, laughter, and candid advice will be deeply missed, Cheryll leaves a lifetime of cherished memories and a legacy that encourages us all to be unapologetically ourselves. Her family extends their heartfelt gratitude to everyone who supported Cheryll in her final years, months, and days, and to all her friends and family who gave her love throughout her extraordinary life.
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