Cherna Ellen Surlin, 63, of Tucson, Arizona passed away peacefully on Thursday, August 20, 2020. Cherna was born on September 15, 1956 in New York, New York. She was preceded in death by her parents, Benjamin and Harriet Surlin; brother, Charles Surlin; and the love of her life, Michael Alfani.
Cherna will be terribly missed by her two children, Sarah Paoli-Sanchez and Adam Paoli; son-in-law Sammy J. Sanchez; and grandchildren Carmella Sanchez, Melina Sanchez, and Sammy C. Sanchez.
Cherna enjoyed her retirement after working for more than 20 years as a very dedicated Special Education teacher, who frequently went above and beyond for her students. She attended the University of Arizona, obtaining her Master's degree of Special Education and Bachelor of Science in Vocational Rehabilitation.
Cherna was a dedicated mother and grandmother. She loved spending time with family, caring for her beloved pets, vacationing at the ocean, reading, and listening to rock 'n roll music. Her favorite bands included The Beatles and The Rolling Stones, just to name a few.
She will be fondly remembered for her kindness and generosity.
