Lillian Perez Cheek

Lillian Perez Cheek, a beloved member of the community, passed away on July 10, 2024, at CaroMont Regional Medical Center in Gastonia, North Carolina. She was born on February 17, 1943, in Chicago, Illinois.

Throughout her remarkable life, Lillian made significant contributions through her various careers and passions. With an impressive dedication of 55 years in the food service industry, she shared her culinary expertise by teaching cooking classes and excelled in creating miniature dioramas, and custom jewelry pieces securing numerous awards from the Charlotte Miniature Society and the Gaston County Senior Games. Lillian also indulged in playing cards and creating beautiful stained-glass pieces. Her vibrant personality shone through as she managed numerous corporate cafeterias as well as hospital and school cafeterias, where she touched many lives with her kindness. Notably, Lillian served as a Pastry Chef and dedicated 15 years of her career to Marshall Field and Company in their Chicago store.

Lillian's legacy extends beyond her professional accomplishments to encompass her role as a devoted wife and compassionate individual who found joy in assisting others. She leaves behind cherished memories with her surviving family members: her loving husband of 32 years, David E Cheek; and his son, Troy Cheek (Christy) and grandsons Ryan, Andrew, and Evan Cheek. In addition to her immediate family, she is also survived by her step brother, Alphonse Edward Luis and sister, Ingrid Ilgauskas.

As we mourn the loss of Lillian Perez Cheek, we celebrate a life richly lived and remember her for the boundless love and warmth she shared with all who knew her. Her presence will be deeply missed yet forever treasured by those whose lives she touched. A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, July 20th at Withers & Whisenant Funeral Home Chapel With Deacon Andy Fatovic officiating.  The family will receive guests following the service at the funeral home.

Withers and Whisenant Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 2916 Union Road, Gastonia, North Carolina, (704) 864-5144, is serving the family.

Online condolences may be made at: www.withersandwhisenantfuneral.com