Cheryl Ann (Donaldson) Gittins

In Loving Memory of Cheryl D Gittins 

Cheryl Ann Donaldson Gittins, 69, of Sanford, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on February 19, 2026, after courageously battling ovarian cancer until her very last day. Though her body grew tired, her spirit and mind continued to fight with the same strength that defined her life.

Born on December 10, 1956, in Washington, D.C., Cheryl was the beloved daughter of the late Kenneth Donaldson Sr. and Madeline Merriman Donaldson of Maryland. She was also preceded in death by her brothers Michael Donaldson, Kenneth Donaldson Jr., and Douglas Donaldson, and her son, Danny Cole Jr.

Cheryl is survived by her devoted husband and best friend of 35 years, Brian D. Gittins, with whom she built a life filled with love and laughter in Sanford, North Carolina. She leaves behind her loving children: Penny Williams (Curtis), and Dawn Alderman. She is also survived by her brother Richard “Bill” Donaldson (Barbara), her sister Lisa Donaldson, nieces, nephews and a very large extended family. 

Her greatest joy in life was her family. Cheryl’s legacy continues through her cherished grandchildren: Tiffani Bell, Maurissa Bell, Alexis Bell, Christian Williams, Chamond Williams, Maurice Bell, Halie Cole, Steven Cole, Joshua Cole, Jason Cole, Aubree, Marisa Walton, and Maurice Walton. She was also blessed with great-grandchildren: Lux, Zayvian, Braxton, Khari, Raiya, Graesyn, Legend, Nylan and Tiere Jr., each of whom brought light and pride to her life.

For 30 years, Cheryl dedicated herself as a manager with Short Stop until her retirement in 2022. Her work ethic, leadership, and loyalty reflected the same consistency and strength she carried in her personal life.

Cheryl never met a stranger. She loved everyone as if they were her own and would give you her last dime if you needed it. She was kind, nonjudgmental, and welcoming to all. Family was her everything. Her home was a place of warmth, laughter, and unconditional love.

Even in her final days, she made one thing clear: she did not want sadness to define her memory. She wanted her life celebrated. She wanted kindness to continue. She wanted her family united.

As a family, we will carry out her wishes. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date, when family and friends can come together to honor and remember the wonderful woman she was. When the time is right, Cheryl will return to Washington, D.C., to join her parents in her final resting place.

Though our hearts are heavy, we find comfort in knowing her fight is over and her spirit is at peace. Her love, her strength, and her kindness will live on in each of us.

Forever loved. Forever remembered.

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