Cheryl Lynn Potate-Smith's Obituary
Cheryl Lynn Potate‑Smith, 62, of Mableton, GA, passed away peacefully on Thursday, April 23, 2026, surrounded by her daughter, Malerie Smith. Cheryl was born on August 28, 1963, in Atlanta, GA, the beloved daughter of the late Mr. Tommy Potate and Ms. Mari Carpenter.
Cheryl is survived by her mother, Mari Carpenter of Marietta, GA; her aunt, Patsy Gillespie; her daughter, Malerie Smith, son‑in‑law, Nathan McCrory; and her cherished granddaughters, Kaydence McCrory and Serenity McCrory, all of Marietta, GA. She is also survived by her spiritual partner, Charles Porter of Mableton, GA; her half‑sister, Ann Marie Ianneillo of Pennsylvania; and many cousins who will forever hold her memory close.
She is preceded in death by her grandmother, Eugenia Potate; her father, Tommy Potate; her stepmother, Mary “Libby” Potate; her grandmother Ruth Moorefield; and numerous aunts and uncles who now welcome her into her eternal home.
Even in her hardest seasons, Cheryl never stopped loving deeply. Her greatest pride in life was her daughter, Malerie, and becoming a grandmother—“GiGi” it brought her a joy that softened every burden. Kaydence and Serenity were her light, her laughter, and the heartbeat of her days. Cheryl often wished for more time on this earth to watch them grow and to continue loving her family in the way only she could. Though her time was shorter than anyone hoped, her love remains—steady, lasting, and woven into the hearts of all who knew her.
Those who loved Cheryl will always remember her deep connection to the water, it was her happy place. Any chance she had, she was swimming, floating, or simply soaking in the peace that water brought her. It was where her spirit felt lightest. If you picture her now, you can almost see her there—sun on her face, calm in her heart, completely in her element. She is now at peace and quietly resting.
Cremation arrangements were entrusted to Davis‑Struempf Funeral Home & Crematory of Austell, GA. Cheryl’s final resting place will be at Sunrise Gardens of Memories in Douglasville, GA, where she will be laid to rest beside her late grandmother, Eugenia Potate. A service to honor Cheryl’s life will be held at a later date, where family and friends will gather to celebrate the beautiful legacy she leaves behind.
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