Saratoga Springs - Cheryl Pepper (Pitney) passed away peacefully at her home in Saratoga Springs, NY, on July 15, 2026. Born on July 23, 1947, in Saratoga Springs, Cheryl was the daughter of the late John and Mary (Furey) Pitney. She was a 1965 graduate of Saratoga Springs High School and went on to the College of Saint Rose, where she earned a bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education and a master’s degree in Educational Psychology.

Cheryl was an avid reader and, for much of her life, always had a book at her side and a stack waiting on her nightstand. Her love of reading led her to work at the Saratoga Springs Public Library from the late 1980s until 2002. She treasured her years at the library, not only for the opportunity to work among books, but also for the close friendships she formed with her colleagues.

Cheryl married the love of her life and high school sweetheart, John Pepper, on March 29, 1969. Together they built a life centered around their family. Cheryl faced numerous health challenges throughout her life, and through every one John stood by her side. In her final years, he lovingly cared for her each day with incredible patience, tenderness, and selflessness, reflecting the incredibly strong love they shared for over 60 years.

Cheryl’s primary passion was her family. Her two children and four grandchildren were at the center of her world, which was well documented by her carefully crafted photo albums and walls full of framed family pictures. For nine years, Cheryl meticulously planned yearly trips to Cape Cod and treasured every moment watching her children and grandchildren enjoy that time together. The highlight of those weeks was celebrating her birthday with cake - her favorite treat. She was happiest when surrounded by family.

Cheryl was predeceased by her parents, John and Mary (Furey) Pitney.

She is survived by her beloved husband of 57 years, John Pepper; her children, John Pepper and Debra Allen; her daughter-in-law, Cindy Pepper; her son-in-law, Patrick Allen; her cherished grandchildren, Annalise Pepper (Emily), Corinne Pepper, Lucas Allen, and Matthew Allen; her sister and best friend, Mary Brundage (Patrick); her brother, John J. Pitney Jr. (Lisa), of whom she was so proud; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

The family extends their gratitude to the staff at Wesley Community Healthcare Center and Woodlawn Commons for the compassionate care and support they provided to Cheryl over the past year. They also wish to express their deepest appreciation to Margaret Bishop, whose devoted care and compassion made it possible for Cheryl to spend her final days at home, where she was most comfortable and surrounded by the love of her family.

Family and friends are invited to calling hours on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at the William J. Burke & Sons/Bussing & Cunniff Funeral Homes, 628 North Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY. A funeral service will immediately follow at 11:30 a.m. in the funeral home.

Burial will follow in the family plot at Greenridge Cemetery, Saratoga Springs, NY.

In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes donations to Hospice or to The Saratoga Springs Public Library