Ferguson, Cheryl Lee

Sydney, NS

November 12, 1968 - October 15, 2025

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved wife, mother, and sister, Cheryl Lee Ferguson (née MacGregor), who passed peacefully on October 15, 2025, surrounded by her family.

Born to Robert and Louise MacGregor (MacQueen) on November 12, 1968, in Sydney, Nova Scotia, Cheryl brought joy, warmth, and light to everyone who knew her.

Cheryl possessed a remarkable gift for connection, making everyone feel special with a listening ear, a thoughtful gesture, and a radiant smile that filled the room. Her infectious laughter and vibrant energy enriched our lives, serving as a beautiful reminder to appreciate everyday moments.

For Cheryl, life was a full-participation sport. She could turn a simple gathering into a dance party, a joy that began as a young girl at Susan Gallop's dance school. She was a leader at Riverview High School (1987), balancing many responsibilities including yearbook editor, student council, and cheerleading. She maintained this momentum at Acadia University (1991), where she earned a Bachelor of Science and was awarded the prestigious Golden A. After earning her Master of Science from Springfield College (1993), she dedicated many years to her career as a Certified Hand Therapist, sharing guidance, encouragement, and positivity with all she met.

Outside of work, Cheryl loved to stay active: teaching aerobics classes, running marathons, cheering at hockey rinks, tennis courts, and soccer fields, and enjoying family walks around the neighborhood. Driven by a strong sense of togetherness and adventure, Cheryl was a legendary hostess who welcomed, and planned countless itineraries for, friends and family visits. From hiking the Swiss Alps to riding hot air balloons over the Grand Canyon, Cheryl championed the immense potential of life and inspired others to aim high.

While life brought Cheryl to Europe and the United States, Cape Breton was always her home. She cherished summers spent at the MacGregor bungalow, "Camp Laugh-A-Lot" in East Bay, surrounded by the laughter and storytelling of multiple generations of loved ones.

Cheryl defined the gold standard of friendship and was a magnetic, dedicated friend to so many who feel this loss deeply. She poured love into her family and always made time to nurture these relationships. Cheryl's greatest joy was her children, Cole and Elle, whom she raised with care, encouragement, and a strength that will continue to shape their lives in immeasurable ways.

Though words cannot express the depth of our loss, we take comfort in knowing that Cheryl's undeniable spirit, distinctive laughter, and boundless love will live on forever in the hearts of her family and friends. Her greatest legacy is the powerful example she set of living life joyfully, surrounded by loved ones.

Cheryl will be remembered with love by her husband, Craig; children, Cole and Elle; brothers, Robbie (Noreen) and Barry (Sheila); nephews and nieces, Owen (Nicole), Corey (Milene), Lauren (Clayton Davis), and Jenna (Pat Holland); and great-nieces and nephews, Aela, Finlay, Valentina, Giulietta, Isla, Lincoln, and Liv. Her memory will also be cherished by father and mother-in-law, Norman and Dianne Ferguson; sister-in-law, Cheryl (Paul Jamael); and nieces, Marlowe and Norah.

We extend our sincere thanks to the 9th floor staff of Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies in Orlando, Florida, with special gratitude to Dr. Shelly Seward, who went above and beyond to ensure Cheryl received the compassionate care she deserved.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, October 30th from 6pm-8pm at the Golden Bear Club, 6300 Jack Nicklaus Pkwy, Windermere, FL, 34786. Family visitation will take place Friday, November 7th from 6-8pm at United Protestant Church of Sydney River (front door). Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, November 8th at 11am, also at the United Protestant Church of Sydney River with Rev. Dana Feltmate officiating. Interment will take place in Alfred Smith Cemetery. The funeral service will be livestreamed on the Sydney Memorial Chapel Facebook page.

In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Cheryl may be made to your charity of choice.