Cheryl Ann Baranano

Cheryl was born May 25, 1947 to Alden J. and Helen F. Ritter in Elyria, Ohio. She graduated from Bryn Mawr College in 1969, where she majored in philosophy. On March 21, 1970, she married Eduardo Carlos Barañano. They raised two sons, David and Chris, and a daughter, Anne.

Cheryl’s intellect and curiosity about the world led to diverse interests including genealogy, birding, collecting seashells and Saori weaving. She loved teaching children, starting as a Montessori teacher in California in the 1970s and more recently as a teacher for the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church. She believed in the importance of making children feel welcome and helping them find their place in the world. Deeply spiritual, she was always eager to develop meaningful connections with others, often by sharing personal stories and drawing connections to the larger world.

She and her husband Eduardo shared fifty years together. Their loving marriage was full of adventure, fun and teamwork. In 1980, they moved to Mobile to raise their family and establish his ophthalmology practice. Forty years later, all three children are practicing physicians, have happy families and are grateful for her devotion and love in raising them. She treasured her friendships throughout her life, from childhood, college and with neighbors, fellow members of the Altar Guild and the Shakespeare Club.

Cheryl was preceded in death by her father, Alden J. Ritter. She is survived by her husband, Eduardo; children, David E. Barañano, Chris F. Barañano and Anne E. Barañano; five grandchildren; mother, Helen F. Ritter; siblings Grant A. Ritter, Nancy R. Lewis and John D. Ritter; cousin David N. Stusse; seven nieces and nephews; and her beloved in-laws.

A memorial service will be held at a future date. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Cheryl's name to St. Paul's Episcopal Church, 4051 Old Shell Road, Mobile, AL 36608 or to the charity of your choosing.