Obituary of Cheryl Lynn Hendrickson

Cheryl Lynn Hendrickson was born on May 21, 1948. She was the eldest child born to the late Belma Sands "Guiding Light" and the late Wilmore Sands in Huntington, New York. She was a proud Native American and belonged to the Montaukett Tribe of Long Island, NY. She was known as "Shining Dove". She attended the South Huntington and Huntington School Districts. After graduation, she attended Farmingdale College where she studied Nursing. Later her career paths took her to work as a medical secretary in Hicksville. Tough it was unfortunate when she was injured on the job, it was a blessing in disguise. This allowed Cheryl to spend quality time with her family. Growing up in Huntington she met the love of her life, high school sweetheart and best friend Allan Hendrickson. They married on October 2, 1965 and spent the next 50+ years with commitment and lots of love. From this union they were blessed with four beautiful children and 11 beloved grandchildren. Cheryl was a devoted wife and mother whose home was filled with love. Family always came first to her. Two of her favorite holidays were Thanksgiving and Christmas spent with the family. She would always remember birthdays by calling, sending a card or present. Cheryl was also known as an "Earth Mother". She had a gift to see the good in everyone. She always put everyone first. She wore her heart on her sleeve. She would open her home to anyone and some never wanted to leave.. She became a second mother to many of her children's friends. In her early years, she loved to bowl and play softball. Cheryl was a designated hitter and could be counted on to "clean up" the bases. She made Native American jewelry and was the keeper of the family genealogy. In her free time, she did cross-word puzzles, watched Wheel of Fortune, Family Feud and did not miss an episode of "Scandal" or "How to get Away with Murder". Cheryl would always ensure she would get her lottery number in daily. For the past five years she enjoyed vacationing in the Outer Banks with her family. Her grandchildren would often request their favorite dishes of macaroni and cheese and spaghetti. Although Cheryl loved living in Huntington, recently she and Al relocated to Hertford, North Carolina. In an e-mail to a friend she described the move as "her being in Paradise". Cheryl went home to be with the Lord on August, 2016. She leaves to cherish her precious memories, her children: Allan (Nanette), Alicia (Paul), Aaron, Allek, and Godson Daniel. Her legacy remains with her beloved grandchildren: Anthony, Allan, Aarielle, Alexander, Armani, Allek Jr., Paige, Andre'a, Amarr, Pamela, and Kyrie Aiden. Cheryl is survived by her siblings: Tina, (Kenny) Roxanne, (Brian) Terri, (Michael) Eric, Donna, (Thomas Lawrence) Valerie, (Eric) Tracey, (Tony) Lisa, (Derrick) Wilmore and Steven (Jonel). Preceding her death were four brothers: Lamont, Ricky, Tony, and Robert. She leaves to cherish her memories Special Loved Ones Godmother Paula, Maria, Terry, Claire, Gale, Jimmy, Richie, Gil, Wally, Beverly, Matt, Katienna, Tanya, Mikey and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.