Cheryl Elaine Hodnett Pierce Cephas, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, passed away peacefully on April 13, 2025, at the age of 76. Born on June 10, 1948, in Danville, Virginia, she was the treasured daughter of the late Charlie and Mabel Hodnett. Cheryl was a proud 1966 graduate of John M. Langston High School. She began her collegiate studies in Sociology and History at North Carolina Central, and later earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education and Special Education from D.C. Teachers College (now the University of the District of Columbia) in 1980. She also pursued further studies in Personnel Management at Prince George's Community College. Throughout her professional life, Cheryl was a dedicated and detail-oriented administrator. She served as a secretary at the Securities and Exchange Commission, continued her federal service as a secretary and office administrator for the Department of the Interior, and later worked as a legal secretary with the prestigious law firm Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP. Cheryl lived a vibrant life full of love, energy, and unwavering support for her family. She was a devoted fan of the Washington Commanders and the Georgetown Hoyas and was always cheering from the sidelines or the stands for her children and grandchildren's sports and school events. She loved cooking new recipes, enjoyed the occasional Starbucks Frappuccino, and was a loyal viewer of The Young and the Restless and The Bold and the Beautiful. She also had a soft spot for casinos—especially slot machines—and never shied away from a good political conversation. Cheryl's greatest joy came from the time she spent with her family. She is survived by her loving son Marvin E. Pierce Jr. and devoted daughter Caryn Pierce; her beloved grandchildren Myles C. Wright and Maiya C. Coles; and her cherished bonus grandchildren Tyra Wilson and Dimarco Coles. She also leaves behind her brothers Gary Hodnett Sr. (Deborah) and Reginald Hodnett (Wendy); nephews Tracey Hairston, Gary Hodnett Jr. (Kia), Jordan Hodnett (Kayla), Brandon Hodnett (Ashley), Gevon McLaughlin (Carissa), Jalen Hodnett; her nieces Tonya Love (Christal), Teresa Hardy (Carlton), and Pamela Love Smith (Marcus); as well as a host of great-nieces, nephews, and extended family and friends who loved her dearly. Cheryl was preceded in death by her parents, Charlie and Mabel Hodnett; her brother William Love; and two dear companions, Marvin E. Pierce Sr. and Robert Cephas Sr. Cheryl will be remembered for her warmth, wit, fierce loyalty, and the powerful love she shared with her family and community. Her legacy lives on in the hearts of all who knew her.