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Her love for her family, her church, and her community will be remembered with gratitude

Cheryle Denise Ervin Leary, born January 19, 1956, in Morganton, North Carolina, passed away on October 23, 2026, at Kate B. Reynolds Hospice Home in Winston-Salem, North Carolina.

A native of Morganton, Cheryle was educated in the Burke County School System, where she earned her high school diploma. She went on to work as a recreational therapist in the mental health field, a calling that reflected her caring spirit and her commitment to helping others. Those who knew her understood that compassion was at the center of her life. She was truly a mother to the community and was always caring for others.

Her faith and service were also defining parts of her life. Cheryle was a lifelong member of Mission A.M.E. Church, where she gave generously of her time and gifts. Over the years, she served as Sunday School Superintendent, Steward, Class Leader, member of the Choir, Culinary Director, member of the Finance Committee, and former Trustee. Through each role, she strengthened her church family and left a lasting example of devotion, leadership, and love.

Cheryle will be deeply missed by her loving family. She is survived by her son, Brian Brostol and his wife, Anya, of Columbus, Georgia; and her daughter, Tyra Bristol of Morganton. She also leaves behind her sisters, Rev. Diane E. Conley and her husband, Ronald, of Morganton, Revelee Ervin of Huntersville, North Carolina, Robin E. Reed and her husband, Amos, of Avondale, Arizona, and Terri Erwin of Morganton; and her brother, Robert Clifton Erwin Jr. and his wife, Tonya, of Prosper, Texas.

She is also lovingly remembered by her grandchildren, Ajarian “Joe” Fleming, Jailan Nicole Dula, Darius Scott Bristol, Kelvis Andre Dula, Noah Izayah Carpenter, Kristopher Isiah Dula, and Arseney Maximilian Bristol; and by her great-grandchildren, Johana Lilliana Mahlan Davis, Araya Faith Dula, Ayla Rose Dula, Leyton Elizabeth Grace Dula, and Haven Skye Dula. Her memory will remain dear as well to her special friend, Eric O’Neil, and to a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends whose lives were touched by her kindness.

She was preceded in death by her father, Robert Clifton Erwin Sr.; her mother, Elizabeth Ervin Erwin; her first husband, Horatio Bristol III; and her adopted son, Jonathan Wilkins.

Cheryle Denise Ervin Leary leaves behind a legacy of service, faith, and unwavering care for others. Her love for her family, her church, and her community will be remembered with gratitude and cherished always.

Arrangements are incomplete at this time and will be announced when finalized by McCain Funeral Home & Cremations, LLC.