January 6, 1950 – April 10, 2026
Cheryl Ann Tyo passed away peacefully on April 10, 2026 at Tampa General Hospital surrounded by her loving family.
Cheryl is survived by her devoted life partner Barbara Francia, siblings, Cynthia D’Arienzo (Matthew), Joseph Tyo, James Tyo (Patricia Horvath), Todd Tyo (Lisa Lantry) and nieces, Madeline Tyo Hauser, Claire Tyo and nephews Michael D’Arienzo, David D’Arienzo, Joseph J. Tyo, Jason Tyo and Jarret Tyo along with several great nieces and nephews.
Cheryl was born January 6, 1950 in Massena, NY to Doris and Vernon Tyo. She graduated from Holy Family High School. Cheryl went on to graduate from Oswego State University. She earned a Masters Degree from the University of South Florida and a Masters in School Administration from the University of Tampa.
Cheryl began her teaching career January 1974 at Tinker Elementary School located on MacDill Airforce Base in Tampa, FL. She celebrated a thirty-eight year career at Tinker Elementary, including the last nineteen years as the principal. On any given day, you could find her on the floor with students or on the playground cheering them on. She leaves behind a legacy of love and dedication to teaching and mentorship. She saw special traits and talents in her students and staff and set them on life long careers. She never thought of her job as work but a calling.
Cheryl’s life was enriched by her love of her family and the time spent with family and friends. There was nothing more important to her. Her zest for life was a model for all who knew her.
Memorial Service to be determined at a later date.
Memorial contributions may be made to St Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
6 Comments
Sandy Geagan
Cheri became the loving mother figure for her sister and brothers after Doris passed. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her.
Anonymous
Rest in Peace my dear friend. Your light will always shine bright. Love, Bish
Anonymous
Cheri was a very special lady! She will be greatly missed by her family and friends. Prayers for you and your family.
Pat Zingaro
Cheri was a very special lady! She will be greatly missed by her family and friends. Prayers for you and your family.
Marika
You will be solely missed in the neighborhood as you are such a loving and friendly person. You made us so welcome when we first moved in into the neighborhood 10 years. Freckles my dog always looking out for you to say hello.
Jennifer Copple
Cheryl was a wonderful principal. One of the best I’ve ever had the pleasure to work for. She supported her teachers and made administrative decisions based on what was “best for the child”, which isn’t always a popular stance to take. It took courage and she had plenty of it. Her love for children shined bright in her smile and every student could feel it.
Cheryl was also a devoted family friend. We loved her dearly. She will be greatly missed.