Cheryl Ann Tyree Wehnke

Cheryl Ann Tyree Wehnke, 75, passed away peacefully on June 19, 2026, in North Port, Florida. She was born on September 12, 1950, in Hillsborough County, Florida.

Born in Hillsborough, Cheryl was raised and spent much of her life after 1953 in DeSoto County. She was a proud descendant of one of the area's pioneering families and was deeply influenced by the values, faith, and traditions instilled by her grandparents, Benjamin Franklin Welles Sr. and Viola Appellonia Carlton Welles, as well as by her mother, Matryd Ella Welles Tyree of Arcadia. Her father, John "Jack" O'Neill Tyree of DeLand, served honorably as an ensign in the United States Naval Reserve aboard the USS Oakland in the Pacific Theater during World War II, participating in the initial stages of the occupation of Japan.

A 1968 graduate of DeSoto County High School, Cheryl went on to earn her Associate Degree in Nursing from Manatee Junior College. Nursing was more than a profession—it was her calling. For more than four decades, she compassionately cared for countless individuals throughout DeSoto, Charlotte, Highlands, Sarasota, and Lee counties. Her career included service at area hospitals, home health agencies, G. Pierce Wood Memorial Hospital, the DeSoto Dual Diagnosis Juvenile Correctional Facility, and DeSoto Health and Rehab. Whether caring for patients facing infectious diseases, cancer, psychiatric illnesses, or other complex medical conditions, Cheryl approached every person with kindness, empathy, dignity, and unwavering dedication.

Cheryl was a lifelong member of First Baptist Church of Arcadia, where her faith was a guiding force throughout her life. She faithfully served her church by singing in the choir and occasionally playing the piano and organ during worship services. Following her retirement, Cheryl found her greatest joy in her family, especially her beloved grandchildren. She treasured attending their school activities, sporting events, and award ceremonies, never missing an opportunity to encourage them or celebrate their successes. Her love, support, and quiet strength will remain a lasting gift to those who knew her.

Cheryl was preceded in death by her parents; her brother, Neill Tyree; and her sister, Matryd "Jane" Tyree Adams, all of Arcadia.

She is lovingly remembered by her daughter, Jennifer L. Sadonis, and son-in-law, Jeff Sadonis, of North Port, Florida; her cherished grandchildren, Madisyn L. Crites, Caiden J. Crites, Ainsley T. Crites, and Ripley L. Sadonis; as well as many extended family members and dear friends.

A graveside service celebrating Cheryl's life will be held on Friday, July 24, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. at Joshua Creek Cemetery in Arcadia, Florida.

Cheryl's legacy is one of compassion, faith, service, and unconditional love. She devoted her life to caring for others, and the lives she touched through her nursing, her church, her family, and her friendships stand as lasting testaments to a life well lived. She will be deeply missed and remembered forever.