Cheryl Gravelle-Lea
GLADSTONE — Cheryl Gravelle-Lea, 61, a devoted wife and mother, passed away unexpectedly at OSF St. Francis Hospital on Saturday, November 1, 2025. She will be missed by her loving family.
Cheryl’s greatest joy and most cherished accomplishment was her children, in whom she took immense pride. She built her life around them, celebrating their successes and providing unwavering love and support. In 2014 she found her partner for life when she married her husband, Reuben. Together they made their home and settled in Kipling, MI.
Born in Escanaba, Cheryl spent her formative years growing up in Illinois before returning to the familiar comfort of the Escanaba area. She had a strong work ethic throughout her life, taking on a variety of roles to help support her family, including working in home health care, McDonald’s, Pat’s Foods, and most recently Door Dashing.
Beyond her family and work, Cheryl had a lively spirit and a love for simple pleasures. She found excitement in gaming, the casino, and she loved baking for her family.
Among survivors include her husband, Reuben Lea; children, Jennifer Gravelle, Bo (Melissa) Sharp, Kayla Gravelle, David Soderman, and Kamal Lea; grandchildren, Lexi and Camron Ahtila, Dais and Kiera Sharp; mother, Elaine Trumble; step mother, Carol Gravelle; sisters, Sandra (Don) Smith, Cindy (Tony) Corrado, and Merri Kerns; brothers, Dan Trumble, Shawn Trumble, Brian (Beth) Gravelle, and Kevin (Tracy) Gravelle; and many aunts, uncles, nieces, and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her father, Francis Gravelle; step father, Roger Trumble; grandparents, Fred and Martha Gravelle and Ray and Maida Hansen; sister, Pamela Gravelle; and brother, Rodney Trumble.
A celebration of Cheryl’s life will take place at her sister Sandra’s house on Saturday, November 15 from 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. at 1418 10th Ave S., Escanaba. All are welcome to attend and share memories.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that contributions be sent to the family at the above address to help support unexpected funeral and memorial expenses. Your kindness is deeply appreciated.
A message of condolence may be directed to the family by visiting www.crawfordfuneralhomes.net. The Crawford Funeral Homes are assisting the family.
