Cherie Diane Lyon, 65, of Rockford, wandered off to her next great adventure on July 5, 2026 - likely pausing to admire a bird on the way out.

She was born September 10, 1960, in Rockford, IL, to LaVerne and Marilyn (Townsend) Buske, and graduated from Harlem High School in 1978. She went on to earn her Associate Degree from Rock Valley College and built a career as a Drafter/Mechanical Designer.

As a young woman, Cherie loved riding horses, and she carried stories of her mare, Lady, for the rest of her life. Her love of animals was not limited to horses; her garden became a haven for birds, and her porch, by her own quiet decree, was open to any neighborhood cat, possum, or raccoon willing to stop by for a snack. She also loved fishing, especially alongside her late fiancé, John Bush.

Cherie was an avid reader with a love for worlds of science fiction, fantasy, and mystery. Books by J.R.R. Tolkien, C.S. Lewis, Terry Pratchett, and Jim Butcher filled her shelves. She was a creator of worlds herself: a writer of several novels (sadly, unpublished), a talented artist who filled canvases and sketchbooks with pieces drawn from both her life and her imagination.

Cherie was a gifted singer, with a deep faith in Christ. She found joy in choir at the churches she attended over the years. Many of her favorite songs were hymns and songs from contemporary Christian artists like Michael W. Smith and Rich Mullins; she would often sing or hum them as she went about chores. She was a longtime member of Bethany Presbyterian Church in Loves Park, and helped run the youth program for several years.

Cherie is survived by her children; Mark Lyon, James Lyon, Melissa Wenger, and John Bush Jr.; her sisters, Edith Anderson and Chris Cardenas; several grand- and great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and cousins; and her beloved cats, Bootsy and Bonnie, who no doubt already miss the extra treats. She was preceded in death by her parents and her fiancé, John.

She leaves behind a garden full of birds; a house full of music, art, and cats who found the right person; and a family full of stories that will keep her memory alive for years to come.

Visitation on Sunday, July 12, 2026 from 12pm to 1pm; followed by a celebration of Cherie's life at 1pm at Grace Funeral & Cremation Services; 4301 N. Main St. Rockford. Pastor Stephen Bowie will officiate. Private family interment to occur in Jo Daviess County, IL at a later date. Share a memory or condolence at www.graceFH.com.