I still miss her so much. She  was a wonderful person . I am so thankful she was in my life .  She was a second mother to my child and grandkids. I love you Cheryle!

I think of her everyday. She was an amazing person .  life is so different for us sense she has been gone . love and miss her everyday .  

I met Cheryl and Eric in 2015 when they hired me as their assistant.  It was clear from the start that they were wonderful people and they were there when I went through one of my roughest points of my life.

My favorite story of Cheryl though is how she came into the office one day when I had my new puppy and found him on my desk.  She laughed so hard and loved to continue to talk about finding my puppy on my desk.  Then they got Winston and it suddenly was Cheryl’s turn to have the puppy on the desk.

Cheryl & Eric will forever hold a special place in my heart and memories.  She is missed deeply by both myself and my boys.  Sending Cheryl’s family and friends many loving thoughts and prayers as they move through this new version of life.

Cheryle was truly a gift in my life. She had a way to make everyone around her happy . She was the most amazing person I have ever met. Everything she did was done to help someone else . I didn't get the chance to  thank her  for all the help she gave me with Diamond or how she stepped in and helped my family when my parents got cancer. You never had to ask her for anything cause some how she just showed up to help with everything and knew exactly what you needed before you did. I loved going and staying with her and E because I knew there would be great food and lots of laughs. Her and Eric have taught me so much and showed me how love should be. I miss her very much and can't believe  she won't be in the next chapter of my life . In some way she has helped me in every situation in my life. I was lucky and blessed to be a part of her and Eric's life .  Love Always Marlene 

Once in a while you will cross paths with someone with a  kind  spirit , Cheryl was one of those people . Cheryl and Eric both are some  of the most generous and unselfish people that we were Fortunate  enough to cross paths with . My wife Suzy got to know cheryl  By working alongside her during picture sales. Within a short time Cheryl was so welcoming and invited us into her home to enjoy a meal together.Her and Eric both were so hospitable and very welcoming  . When visiting Eric and Cheryl there are always a few things that we could expect When spending time over at the Lupton household. Those things were Sampson And Rocky , Their lovable dogs Who would greet  us in the driveway , A good meal And yes most of the time it was delicious seafood and Some of the best company you’ll ever have. Through conversations with Cheryl you could tell that she  had a passion for people and for animals. She was one of those Souls that never met a stranger and showed everyone kindness. After attending her service we realized that she was that way with everyone  who was fortunate enough to cross her path as well. To me it does not matter the number of years that you  spent on this earthly world   or even the material things you own , but What matters most is the people that you have impacted and the lives you’ve touched in a positive way before you leave this earth.  Leaving the world just a little bit better than you found it before you leave here. Cheryl was definitely one of those people That did just that and we were so blessed to know her and get to spend time making memories with her and Eric both. She will truly be missed. 

Mike & Suzy Parker 

To an amazing person whom I came to love over the years. Amazing, caring, loving, and had a heart filled with gold, is the way I'll always remember you. I remember you calling me when you was in Wilmington on a photo shoot saying, "have you heard from Eric?" I say no. Then you said, "he's probably still in the bed." Well when he finally answered the phone, you could still hear the alarm clock in the background lol. There was so many occasions when you had to call me just to make sure he was ok. And when he couldn't get in touch with you, he'll do the same thing. The love you two have for each other is phenomenal. Even after we left the restaurant, you still showed love towards me. I love you Momma C!! There was a time I couldn't stand Grits, but the way you made it, OMG, I thought I was eating steak. I'm going to miss your cooking, smile, laughter, and the love you have for others. Rest Easy Ma!! Love you forever and always

Cheryl was an amazing person with a kind spirit. I first met her when I was a child and my mom worked for her and eric selling pictures. Even as a child I admired her “spark” and love for life and animals. Over the years as I grew I got to know her and Eric even more and spent time with them over at her home eating her delicious seafood, Playing cards, or just hanging out.   One of my favorite memories together was the day I got engaged to my husband Matt and sharing that special memory with her down at our favorite place Topsail island.  I was blessed to be able to spend time with her throughout my life since I was a child until I had a child of my own . Her kindness and gentle spirit with a mix of humor and prankster was unmatched by anyone I know . I will truly miss her smile her laugh her generosity and her kindness .  Until we met again friend on the shores of heaven you will be missed by all. 
With love ,
Brittany White 

Growing up my brother (Sam) and I always looked forward to our visits with Uncle Eric and Aunt Cheryl. We would always have the best time whether it was going to celebration station and playing every game there possible, riding dirt bikes in the back yard or getting to play with all of Aunt Cheryl’s animals. Cheryl and Eric always treated me and my siblings like one of their own and these memories I will cherish for the rest of my life. We will all miss Aunt Cheryl very much ❤️

Cheryl was such a strong willed and incredibly kind woman. Working along side her and her husband was an absolute treasure. I couldn’t have asked for better coworkers and friends. Cheryl cared so much about her job. I could really tell how much she enjoyed working with kids, and it brought her great joy when she captured their beautiful smiles. I could always count on Cheryl to bring a bright attitude and big smile to the office to cheer everyone up after some tough shoots. She was always so sweet to me and she always had my back when Eric was pulling my leg with his daily jokes and shenanigans. It’s the most kind and wonderful people who are taken too early and she was definitely one of them. I’m going to miss Cheryl so much and I know her family is missing her fiercely. I hope everyone finds comfort in her passing peacefully, knowing she will forever be in our hearts.

Cheryl was my sister and she was the best sister anyone could have. She was my advisor in all my important decisions in my life. Anytime I needed help of any kind she was always there without hesitation. 

There is a void in my life with her passing,  Always here for my mother and father and all of our siblings.  I will always treasure our time together especially our trip to Vegas.  Cheryl, I will never forget you, no one can replace the love you have for me and our family. 

Cheryl was my boss, my friend, a mentor, and the best kind of family…the family we get to chose. Working with her and Eric everyday we got to share a lot of life together.  She had a way of looking at life with a twinkle in her eye and a generous spirit that displayed itself in her love for children, animals and her family.  Some of the best memories are of spending beach vacations together and my kids jumping off the dock with Sampson and eating endless crabs.  Also her enduring love for watching her soaps and listening to them while in the office working used to always make me laugh.  She holds a big place in my heart and can’t wait to hear her chuckle again some day💜

Most of my memories with Aunt Cheryl revolve around the beach. We would spend a week at the beach with our whole family each summer and they were the best times. She loved the beach and seafood even more! She was one to never sit still long, whether it was running to the store, the seafood mart,  cooking in the kitchen, or gathering everyone together for family photos; she was always moving. I remember her making her famous potato salad one afternoon at the beach; my mom and I asked her if she needed help and she immediately said no. I secretly knew it was because she liked the potatoes cut evenly and precisely and she knew we wouldn't do it right! :) One summer I got to stay and extra few days  at the beach with just  her and Eric. She taught me how to shell crab legs the "fast" way, and enjoy quiet time without my crazy siblings.

There was also the time that her and Eric took my siblings and I to get matching clothes and take pictures in their studio to surprise our parents with. Being in middle school I remember not being thrilled about the outfit choice, but she took my sisters and I to get our nails done for the first time and that quickly made up for it.  We spent a lot of time in the studio taking pictures with different props and outfits; and while we laugh looking back at our hair and makeup choices, I am so glad we have the pictures to look back on those memories.

Aunt Cheryl as strong woman who would do anything for anyone, and who loved her animals more than anything; she will truly be missed.

I have many memories with Cheryl, one that sticks with me is when Cheryl took Diamond and I to Tweetsie Railroad for the weekend. We rented a red convertible it was a blast! Diamond and I loved going to visit Cheryl and Eric we got to ride the four wheeler all throughout there yard and got to get dressed up for photos! My sister Rachel and I would always put a sheet or big shirts on our arms and get out the green birds (Greeko and Buddy) to hold and play with. Then Buster came along and we loved playing with him, the bird would bark and copy anything you would say. A few things that make me think of Cheryl would be a big pot of crabs, silk pajamas, her love for animals, the beach and going out on the boat. Cheryl will always be remembered and greatly missed. 

Cheryl and I were sister-in-laws for over 25 years and she was so good to my family. She loved my kids like her own. She was a very strong, hard working, loving person. She had a gift with animals, and we always said if we could have a second life we would want to come back as one of Cheryl’s pets! I’m sure my daughter Julia gets her love of animals from Cheryl. She was an extremely private person and I respected that about her. Most of our time together was spent at Topsail on family vacations. We had so many laughs usually over a table full of seafood. Those Lupton men provided us with sooo many stories that brought us to tears. She was a tremendous cook, her tartar sauce was untouchable( she even shared the recipe with me). Cheryl was an amazing wife to Eric and he loved her dearly. She was a fighter til the end but I am thankful she is no longer suffering. My prayer is that she and Pop are together having a nice cold beer!❤️❤️

Over 20 years ago while working a part time job in college, I got tossed into room and was told to help the photographer take pet pictures for the day.   Eric and I hit it off immediately and I began working with him and Cheryl on a regular basis.  They became an important part of my life and family.  Over the years they have watched me and my family grow.  Cheryl has been there to work beside, photograph my wedding portrait, take the first pictures of my newborn,  my sister in law's wedding portrait, a zillion other family and pet portraits, and to keep Eric and me in line.  Cheryl is a strong and amazing woman and she will be truly missed!  Much love to Eric and the family, we love you! -Ali & Family

Cheryl was my only friend ,I'd call her with problems she would usually have a solution.We'talk just to talk about nothing.I loved my sister and I know she's with God my brother Billy.sister Gwendolyn and her pupsIknow she's through the pealey gates..I love and miss youwith all my heart. I'll talk to you in my prayers.   Your sister:Linda

I was lucky enough to have some of my best memories of Cheryl in my favorite place, Topsail Island. A few things that run through my mind when I think of her include: her big excursion loaded down with pets, Eastern Carolina seafood, silk pajamas, and a loving aunt that always made me feel more grown up than I was. Maybe she was just that good at acting our age, entertaining us at the beach would require it. I’ll never forget the period when Cheryl bought Ellie some pajamas, one pair with basketballs and the other with volleyballs. Ellie wore them out! Playing wiffle ball or whatever active we had going on outside the rental house while we await a seafood medley, you could always count on Ellie being in those at the end of the day. Cheryl always had pets and was great with them. I’ll never forget the day Cheryl decided to throw Sampson on the tube in the intercoastal with us and the dog loved it! Cheryl has left her mark on all of her nieces/nephews and has helped create that special place that Topsail is to us. She was lucky to have our Uncle Eric with her until the end and we will all miss her dearly.

I first met Cheryl over 25 years ago when she came into the daycare to take pictures. We immediately connected and soon after I started working for her in the afternoons selling the photographs. Then I started helping Eric doing pet pictures on the weekends. So I became a fixture at the Lupton’s home for 7 days a week and Cheryl loved cooking for me. Our friendship grew to where we loved each as sister and brother. Over the years she watched my children grow up and also became the godmother of my first grandchild Dallas. One of my favorite memories with Cheryl would be that she would call me before Christmas and have me come over and we would have a glass of wine and make it a night of fun and laughs putting up the tree and decorating it and laughing so hard while doing it. Cheryl was so loving and accepting and she was the first person I came out to and she accepted me without judgement and loved me for who I am. She never treated me differently..   Cheryl and Eric are more than friends they are family . Cheryl you will be dearly missed. Love always,    Michael Rice

We meet Cheryl and Eric about 20 years ago  when they moved into our neighborhood. Little did we know that they would become such good neighbors and best of all such good friends. Always sharing food and good company . Cheryl 's courageous battle  is a lesson to us all. She loved our family and friends fish fries in our back yard. She could eat more fish than anyone  and enjoy it more . Cheryl you  and your beautiful smile will surely be missed.  We all love you so much..
Eric we love you and support you through this sorowful time.
We are sending you lots of thoughts and prayers. 
Blessing to all 


Growing up the only people who ever took pictures of me were Cheryl and Eric. I can remember not wanting to smile so Cheryl would use this Barney stuffed animal to get me to smile, and I absolutely loved it! She would always tell me the story about when I was a baby she wanted to use her favorite sea shell prop with me because she loved the beach… she snapped some photos and she decided to lay me in there naked, pure shell and pure bottom, and of course I peed in it. Out of every child that has been in that prop I was the only one to do that. I am forever grateful for the beautiful memories that Cheryl captured and blessed to have her be a part of my life! 

I met Cheryl and Eric about 20+ years ago!  They did photographs at our daycare and we never had another company!!! Cheryl and Eric did my wedding portrait and they photographed my daughter right after she was born(1/2 weeks old!). Sierra wasn’t participating she was irritable and Cheryl was so patient, my mom took my daughter to try and calm her down(mind you she wasn’t dressed for photos). But while my mom was holding her, Cheryl clicked the camera just because( she would always say we got at least 1 picture) and now I have one of the greatest pictures of my mom and daughter together because of Cheryls’ expertise behind the camera!! For that I will be eternally grateful!  Cheryl and Eric became more than our photographers they were our friends and family!!  So many memories over the years!!! Cheryl was phenomenal, she is loved and will be missed!!!

Aunt Cheryl will forever be known as my second mother.  I spent every summer with her since I was a baby and the summers got longer with her as I got older. To her I was "brat" and "snicklefritz".  Even as I got older, made bad decision/wrong choices she was never one to judge me or talk down to me. She only wanted me to know that she was there, still loved me and what she could do to help. I can't remember a phone call where she didnt ask me " when are you coming to live with me?" I turned her down of course because I'm hard headed. At 17 I ended up pregnant with my first little boy, Breyden, no questions asked no judgement she accepted him just as she did me. There was not a time she was in Savannah and did not get him to spend a day with her. I now have 2 boys, and they became obsessed with Aunt Cheryl and Uncle E just like I did. Here recently, about 2 months ago, Uncle E called and Aunt Cheryl was back in the hospital. I got to the hospital, walked in her room, after Uncle E had been sitting there for over 12 hours with her, I say one word to her and she wakes up looks like right at me and says "Hey brat" like nothing was wrong.  We wanted to cry & laugh at the same time. She was a fighter up until the end and her strength will live in all of us. She will continue to be what holds us together even now. She is our glue. She was and will remain a huge part of our life. Its hard to know she's really gone, but the special ones always get called home early. She will be missed so very much but never EVER forgotten. I love you so much Aunt Cheryl!

Forever YOUR Brat💕

Breyden, my oldest, was not a fan of his baby brother. Aunt Cheryl came to town to meet Grayson and once Grayson was in her arms Breyden couldn't help but want to be near his Aunt Cheryl. This is the first picture we have of both the boys together. 

I meant Cheryl 20 years ago as she was the photographer at our child care center.  We developed a friendship which I will always treasure.  I enjoyed her humor and her talents.  She was an exceptional woman and I will miss her very much.  Praying for all, especially Eric.  

I always thought Cheryl had a very distinct voice, accent, and laugh. I have been hearing that happy voice and accent in my head over the past few weeks. She will be missed and remembered by many. 

OBITUARY

Cheryl Ann Lupton

August 7, 1957 – August 2, 2021

Hanes Lineberry Funeral Home & Guilford Memorial Park

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