Cheryl Holley

Cheryl Whitlock Riley Holley, 77, of Nettleton, passed away at her home on Tuesday, March 10, 2026. A feisty, cheerful, and independent spirit, she lived a fulfilled life marked by grace, love, and understanding.

Born on August 30, 1948, to the late John Travis Whitlock and Catherine McCormick Whitlock, Cheryl grew up in the family homestead southeast of Nettleton and graduated from Nettleton High School in 1966. She married Johnny Mac Riley at a young age, and together they had three daughters before his tragic death in an automobile accident on March 14, 1979. On April 18, 1989, she married Wade Holley of Nettleton, and they shared 37 wonderful years together.

Cheryl loved good conversation and was known for her approachable nature. She and Wade took great pride in their homes in the Nettleton area, where her yard was always immaculate with blooming flowers and plants. She found peace and strength in tending the garden. Raised in First Baptist Church of Nettleton, she later joined Nettleton United Methodist Church and, with Wade, drew spiritual nourishment from Crosspoint Fellowship. She worked as the first office employee at Lucky Star Industries in Nettleton, then spent many years in the medical field at Hubbard Clinic in Verona and Dr. Thames Dental Clinic in Nettleton.

Above all, Cheryl cherished her family. She loved, defended, and doted on her three daughters with delight. Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren brought her exceeding joy. She maintained many close friendships and was a steadfast supporter of all things Nettleton. She is survived by her husband, Wade Holley; her daughters, Karen Riley Malone (Tim) of Mooreville, Kristi Riley Tartt (Bo), Katherine Riley, and Debbie Schicht (Richard), all of the Nettleton area; her grandchildren Carmen, Justin, Andrew, Chris, Katie, Karlie, Riley, Kyle, John Evan, John Richard, Helley, and Heavener; her brother, John Travis “Johnny” Whitlock (Phyliss) of Haleyville, Alabama; and numerous great-grandchildren, cousins, nieces, nephews, and their families. She was preceded in death by her first husband, Johnny Mac Riley, and her parents.