NORTHBOROUGH

Cheryl E. Schnare passed away peacefully in her sleep on December 25, 2025, after a brave stance against the health battles she faced. She was 75 years old. It was a fitting farewell for someone who so loved Christmas and made it magical for her family year after year. As her final gift, Cheryl left this world quietly, free from pain, offering her loved ones the comfort of knowing she was at peace.

Born on February 25, 1950, in Marlborough, Massachusetts, Cheryl was the eldest of five children of the late Cosma P. and Lillian M. (Pearl) Cazaropoul. She attended Marlborough Public Schools and graduated from Marlborough High School. After the untimely loss of her mother, Cheryl—still a teenager—selflessly stepped into a mother's role, caring for her four younger siblings and holding the household together with love and determination.

This lifelong devotion to family defined Cheryl's heart. Years later, as both a mother and grandmother, she once again stepped in with protective strength and compassion to support her daughter and grandchildren following the unexpected passing of her son-in-law, Jason Taylor. Cheryl's life was centered on caring for others, and her home was always open—a place where family and friends were welcomed with warmth and kindness.

Cheryl began her working life at Bay State Abrasives. When her daughter Elizabeth was born, she devoted herself fully to raising her, a role she cherished above all else. Later, Cheryl found long-term employment with the Telegram & Gazette Newspaper as a typist. Her remarkable speed and accuracy became widely admired, setting a standard many aspired to reach. Over more than 16 years, she excelled in her work, particularly as a page layout specialist.

In 1990, Cheryl suffered another profound loss with the passing of her husband, Richard L. Schnare, at a young age. As a single mother, she met life's challenges with resilience and courage, never afraid of long hours or hard work. She often took on extra jobs to ensure the best possible life for her daughter.

Cheryl took great pride in her home, creating a space filled with love, comfort, and welcome. Her greatest joy was her family. Cheryl will be remembered for her unwavering love, quiet strength, and the countless lives she touched through her generosity of heart. Her presence will be deeply missed and forever cherished.

Surviving Cheryl is her beloved daughter, Elizabeth Taylor of Northborough; her cherished granddaughters, Hannah and Olivia Taylor, whom she adored being "Nana" to; and her siblings, Lynne Ritchie of Hawaii, Peter Cazaropoul of Northborough, William Cazaropoul of Boylston, and James Cazaropoul of Framingham.

In accordance with Cheryl's wishes, services will be private and held for family only. Arrangements are under the care of Hays Funeral Home, 56 Main Street, Northborough.

Those wishing to leave a kind word or share a memory are invited to visit www.HaysFuneralHome.com