Marlborough – Cheryl A. (Penney) Smith, 67, of Marlborough, passed away peacefully on Saturday, March 22, 2025. Born in Burlington, Vermont, she was the daughter of the late Robert and Rosaline (Belleveau) Penney. She was a proud graduate of Belmont High School, Class of 1976.

Cheryl's deep love for caring for others led her to take on jobs that were always interactive and people-focused. Her caring nature extended to working with children as a daycare provider, a role that brought her immense happiness and fulfillment. She also dedicated much of her career to hospitality, working as a concierge at both the Hampton Inn in Marlborough and the Best Western Royal Plaza, where her warmth and kindness made guests feel at home. In the last year, she served as a transportation aide for children with disabilities, a role that combined her compassion with her desire to support and uplift those in need.

An avid artist, Cheryl found joy in ceramics and painting, inspiring her children and now her grandchildren to embrace their creativity and love of art. Her warmth, humor, and storytelling brought laughter and light to those around her. She cherished time spent with her granddaughters, especially their afternoons on the lake watching them swim. Cheryl also had a passion for collecting antiques, delighting in the histories behind each piece.

She is survived by her loving son, Tyler Smith; her daughter-in-law, Lisa Bennett; and her cherished granddaughters-her "little twinkies" Roselyn and Emilia Smith of Southborough; as well as her dear son, Dylan Smith of Boston. She is also survived by her brothers, Robert Penney Sr. of Providence, Scott Penney of Shrewsbury, and Jay Penney of Scottsdale, AZ; her sisters, Michelle Wright of Watertown and Simone Colclough of Arlington; her former husband, Carey H. Smith of Stow; as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends. Cheryl was predeceased by her beloved daughter, Samantha, who passed away in September 2021, and her brother, David Penney.

Calling hours will be held on Sunday, March 30, from 2-4 PM at Collins Funeral Home, 378 Lincoln Street, Marlborough. Following cremation, burial will be private.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Gavin Foundation in Cheryl's memory.

https://gavinfoundation.org/donate

Funeral arrangements are under the care and direction of Collins Funeral Home. Friends and family are invited to sign Cheryl's online guestbook at collinsfuneral.com