Cherie Elizabeth Slayton

From January 4, 1952, until April 15, 2022, I shared this earth with people I loved deeply. My husband and beloved traveling partner of 47 years Tom, my mom Jean, my sister Cindy, my children Tommy and Kate, my daughter-in-law April, and my darling granddaughter Ellie remain to carry on the best of me.

I lived a full life. I was born in Sandpoint, Idaho to Betty McGinnis and Doug Coleman. In 1972, I moved to Washington, DC to work as a fingerprint clerk at the FBI. Later that year, I took a job as an elevator operator on Capitol Hill, which led to an amazing career in a number of congressional offices, working with great staff, and helping constituents before retiring as a chief of staff. The last nine years of my life were the most wonderful, as I got to be Nana. There were adventures to plan, games to play, cakes to bake, books to read, and streams to explore with my Ellie.

My family was my greatest joy and truest calling. Whether we were trundling off to overseas assignments in Indonesia and Thailand or laughing until tears streamed down our faces during simple family dinners, I always knew how each of them needed to be loved, and I gave it to them unconditionally. And, that’s what I leave with them – the kind of love that lingers and comforts and makes them remember the happy times.

I don’t want flowers, a funeral, or fuss. If you wish, donate to the Arlington (VA) Public Library to share my love of reading. Check in on my family and tell them about the things that made us laugh together. Love and laughter are how I hope you will remember me.

Now that I am unable to plan our visits, please stop by at Congressional Cemetery. Enjoy the dogs playing, watch the goats tidy up the grounds, and share with me about how your day is going and how your family is doing. I look forward to hearing all about it!

- Cherie Elizabeth Slayton

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