Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30 NKJV 

Cheryl Haynes, a beloved daughter; loving sister, mother, grandmother, aunt, cousin; and cherished friend peacefully answered God’s call on Saturday, August 8, 2026, in her son’s arms. The battle fought and the victory won!

Cheryl’s earthly journey began on February 21,1953, as one of three daughters and four sons of the late Natthan and Rebecca Haynes; developing a strong foundation of faith, family values and community at an early age. She attended Boston public schools and graduated in 1970 from Jamaica Plain High School.

After graduation she attended Roxbury Junior College for two years; upon graduation she was employed by New England Baptist Hospital. Remaining there for forty-two years and retiring as a Blood Bank Technician. Never one for being idle and because she wanted to stay active, she also worked parttime at the Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital for forty-three years and retiring from there as a Dietary Aide.

Cheryl, an independent spirit who loved to travel to countries all over the world, travelling alone sometimes, she enjoyed hobbies of reading and doing puzzles. Loved attending and hosting family gatherings and attending as many as she could.

Today, we gather to celebrate a life that touched so many of us in countless ways. Cheryl had a way of making everyone feel seen, heard, and loved. Her infectious disposition could light up a room, and wisdom always pointed us in the right direction, even when we stumbled. Always teaching patience, love, generosity and unwavering loyalty to those she loved; though her physical presence is no longer with us, her spirit lives on in every act of kindness and love we share with each other in her honor.

Cheryl was preceded in death by: Parents – Rebecca and Nathan Haynes and Siblings – Daisy Crayton Haynes, Nathan Haynes, Jr. and Charles Haynes.

Cheryl leaves to cherish precious memories: her son – Velen Shawn Haynes, Nephew – Hodari Haynes, who is more like another son; Grandchildren – Shawna Haynes, Shawn Haynes, Jr., Vedel Haynes, Vonte Haynes, Kayla Haynes, 'DeShawn Haynes, and Shamar Haynes; Siblings: – Josephine Haynes, Melvin Haynes (Diane) and Shumeane Haynes Benford (Tamara); and extended relatives and dear friends.