Cheryl Jeannine Freeman, 79, passed away peacefully on July 24, 2026, after a long and courageous journey with dementia. Cheryl was born on August 18, 1946, to Keith and Dortha Whiteman, who lovingly raised her.

She graduated from Burris High School in 1964 before attending business school. After completing her education, Cheryl moved to Washington, D.C., where she worked for the patent office. During her time there, she met two couples who became lifelong friends and remained an important part of her life for many years.

On September 15, 1973, Cheryl married the love of her life, Steve Freeman. Together they shared 52 wonderful years of marriage. Throughout Cheryl's illness, Steve devoted himself to her care with extraordinary love, patience, and compassion. Cheryl spent more than 20 years as an administrative assistant in Academic Advising at Ball State University. She truly enjoyed helping students navigate their educational journeys and always worked to make things easier for those she served. She also dedicated many years to volunteering as a Girl Scout, Brownie, and Boy Scout troop leader, positively impacting the lives of countless young people. Cheryl attended Glad Tidings church where she volunteered many hours. She loved to work at the welcome desk to greet guests. Family was the center of Cheryl's world. She loved decorating for every holiday and creating reasons to gather together. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying time with loved ones, Cheryl found great joy in bringing people together and making everyone feel welcome. She also enjoyed traveling with her family and friends.

Cheryl will be deeply missed by her devoted husband, Steve Freeman; her children, Stephanie (Joe) Wilson, Aubrey (Josh) Koons, Brad (Sheila) Freeman; and honorary son Steven (Tanya) Walden; her brother, Leon (Joy) Whiteman and sister Sharon Hess; her grandchildren, Tanner Freeman, Blair Freeman, Taylor Caison, JT Caison, Branson Koons, Meriah Koons, Lincoln Koons, and Tara Brown; her great-grandchildren, Zach Caison, Zoey Caison and Ellie Freeman; and her faithful Border Collie, Callie Rae.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Keith and Dortha Whiteman; her sister, Wonda Lou; her son, Ryan Freeman; and many beloved four-legged companions who brought her joy throughout her life.

The family will receive visitors from 10:00 am to 12:00 noon on Thursday, July 30, 2026, at Garden View Funeral Home, 10501 N. State Rd 3, Muncie, IN 47303.

A service to celebrate Cheryl’s life will immediately follow at 12:00 noon at the funeral home with Pastor Jeff Ellis officiating.

Burial will take place at Gardens of Memory in Muncie.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Morrison Woods Memory Care and The Legacy House for the exceptional care, kindness, and compassion they provided when Cheryl could no longer remain at home. They also extend their sincere thanks to SouthernCare Hospice for the comfort and support they gave Cheryl and her family during her final month.

Cheryl's kindness, generosity, and love for family will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

She will be greatly missed and forever remembered.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to The Alzheimer's Association , 50 E 91st St Suite 100, Indianapolis, IN 46240.