Cheryl Ann (Lundy-Mott) Spencer

Cheryl Spencer, a woman of unwavering faith, a devoted mother, grandmother and a lifelong educator, passed away peacefully on April 15, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family at the age of 75.
Born on December 16, 1950, in Americus, Georgia, Cheryl was raised with a deep sense of purpose, compassion, and service—values that guided her throughout her life. From an early age, she felt called to education, believing wholeheartedly in the power of learning to transform lives. That calling became her life’s work.
For more than fifty years, Cheryl lived out her purpose through a quiet yet profound commitment to others. She dedicated her career to education in many roles, including Media Specialist, English Teacher, Assistant Principal, Principal and Principal Mentor within the Grand Rapids Public Schools. She also served as a Center of Excellence Supervisor of Student Teachers at Grand Valley State University and as a Field Coordinator for Coaching for School Improvement through Michigan State University.
Across every position, Cheryl became known for her patience, steady encouragement, and her remarkable ability to see potential in every child. Generations of students will remember her for the warmth, steadiness, and light she brought into their lives. Her colleagues admired her professionalism, wisdom, wit, attention to detail, and her gift for uplifting those around her. Reflecting on her life’s work, Cheryl once shared, “I spent a lifetime helping young people—being their cheerleader, mentor, guide, but more than anything, listening. Not knowing if I made a difference but believing.” She held a deep faith that the seeds planted in love and care would, in time, grow.
Rooted in that same spirit of purpose and service was Cheryl’s deep and abiding faith. It was the foundation upon which she built her life and the compass that carried her through every season. As a devoted member of First Community AME Church, she served faithfully in many capacities, including Church Conference Delegate, Intercessory Prayer Team Leader, Vacation Bible School Coordinator, member of the lay organization, and choir participant. Her faith extended far beyond the church walls, reflected daily in her selflessness, humility, and quiet acts of service.
She often drew strength from her favorite scripture, “Be still, and know that I am God…” (Psalm 46:10), a verse that grounded her and guided others through her words and presence. Conversations with Cheryl naturally turned toward the goodness of God, reflecting the depth of her belief. Her quiet strength, wisdom, and grace were evident to all who knew her. Her heart was pure and reflected Jesus; she gave freely, practiced forgiveness, and loved unconditionally, always choosing compassion in how she saw and served others.
Cheryl also found deep joy and lasting sisterhood as a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Through this lifelong bond, she embraced opportunities for leadership, service, and community engagement. She cherished her Sorors and the sense of belonging to a sisterhood of powerful back women who enriched her sense of purpose and connection.
Above all, Cheryl was a loving and devoted mother, a proud grandmother, and a cherished great-grandmother. She leaves to cherish her memory her children, Sonja, Nikki, Allen, and Christina; her grandchildren, Tevin, Te’vona, Rodney, Allen, Alonah, and Aayonah; and eight great-grandchildren. She nurtured her family and loved them unequivocally and purposefully. Her home was a place of peace and comfort. She also treasured her role as a sister and aunt, embracing her extended family with the same generosity of spirit she so freely shared with all.
Cheryl is also survived by her sister, Beverly Rice, and her brothers, Emerson Mott and Donald Mott. She was preceded in death by her parents, William J. Lundy and Vera M. Mott, and her brothers, James A. Lundy Sr., Zane Lundy Sr., and Bobby J. Lundy.
Outside of her professional and community commitments, Cheryl found great joy in time spent with family. She carried forward the cherished traditions of her mother, bringing loved ones together for family meals—especially during her favorite holiday, Thanksgiving. She was well known for her baking, particularly her pound cake, as well as for her greens, which became a family favorite.
A lifelong learner, Cheryl believed one should never stop growing or seeking knowledge. She often described herself as a “mindful wanderer,” someone who moved through life with curiosity and appreciation for the world around her. She enjoyed reading, going to
the movies, and journaling—simple pleasures that reflected her thoughtful and reflective spirit.
Cheryl had a gift for making others feel seen and valued, whether through a heartfelt conversation, a warm meal, or a quiet act of kindness. Everything she did for others was rooted in love, never for recognition. She often said, “Everything you do, do it from the goodness of your heart—not because you expect anything from it.”
Cheryl’s life was a testament of God’s grace. Her legacy lives on in the countless lives she touched, the family she cherished, and the enduring impact of her work.
The family invites friends and loved ones to celebrate Cheryl’s life at First Community AME Church located at 500 James Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503 on May 9th at 11:00 AM. Delta Sigma Theta Omega Omega Grand Rapids Alumnae Chapter Service will be held at 10:30 AM before the Celebration of Life service begins

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