Cherish Ann Aldridge

Cherish Ann Aldridge, 23, of Great Falls, passed away at home in her sleep Saturday, July 12, 2014.A celebration of her life will be held on Friday, July 18, 2014 at 10:00 a.m. at Hillcrest Lawn Memorial Chapel. Schnider Funeral Home is handling arrangements.Cherish was born in Spokane, Washington on October 2, 1990 to William and Thelma Aldridge. She was raised in Great Falls, receiving her diploma from the Montana State School for the Deaf and Blind in 2010.Cherish was truly amazing. She defied the odds at every turn. She was born three months pre-mature and overcame several life-threatening ailments, including a bout with cancer. She was a survivor. Cherish Ann had an indomitable spirit.Cherish was raised in a loving home by her mother and father. She enjoyed spending time with loved ones. To know her was to love her and we are better people for having had the opportunity to learn from her. Cherish found humor in the mundane; when she laughed, which was often, she caused us to laugh. She brought joy and grace to those who knew her.Cherish is survived by her mother, Thelma Aldridge of Great Falls; brothers Craig (Toni) DeCelles of Great Falls and Royce (Mandy) Aldridge of Yerington, NV; sister Lisa Ellis of Detroit, MI; nieces Chelsi DeCelles of Great Falls and Riley Aldridge of Yerington, NV; nephews Cameron DeCelles of Missoula and Sawyer Aldridge of Yerington, NV; and a large extended family including many relatives and family friends.She was preceded in death by her father, Honest Bill William Aldridge.In lieu of flowers the family requests donation to be made to the Montana School for the Deaf and Blind Foundation, PO Box 6576, Great Falls, MT 59406.