Cheryl Maupin Bell, a lifelong resident of Mexico, Missouri, passed away peacefully after a life filled with love, care, and faith. Born and raised in this tight-knit community, Cheryl’s story is a testament to the enduring spirit of small-town America.
From Mexico, MO to a Teacher’s Calling
Cheryl’s journey began on January 4, 1947, in Mexico, MO. She often reminisced about her idyllic childhood in “Small Town U.S.A.,” filled with simple pleasures like watching horses, sledding, and participating in local parades. After graduating from Mexico Senior High School in 1965, she worked at Southwestern Bell Telephone Company and A.P. Green Fire Brick Company. However, her dream was to become a teacher.
Driven by this ambition, Cheryl pursued her education while working various jobs. She earned an AA degree from Moberly Junior College and a Bachelor of Science in English Education from the University of Missouri, graduating Magna Cum Laude in 1980. Her dedication continued, culminating in a Master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Missouri in 1993.
A Legacy of Education in Mexico, Missouri
Cheryl’s teaching career spanned over two decades, beginning in Montgomery City, MO, and later at Mexico Junior High School. She poured her heart into her students, directing plays, musicals, and providing extra tutoring. Her passion for education earned her the Mexico Area Chamber of Commerce “Teacher of the Year” award in 1999. However, her true reward was witnessing her students’ successes. Even after retirement in 2005, Cheryl continued to share her knowledge, leading the Audrain County Historical Society Children’s History Camp for nine years and receiving the President’s Award in 2010.
Her love for teaching extended beyond the classroom. She became a certified rug hooking instructor at the McGowan Rug Hooking School in Texas, establishing the Salt River Rug Hooking group and leading workshops in Mexico, MO.
Family, Faith, and Remembrance in Mexico, MO
Cheryl’s love for her family was unwavering. Her daughter, Sundy (Smiley) Fuemmeler, was her pride and joy. She also cherished her husband, David Bell, whom she married in 1980, describing them as a team who could accomplish anything together. In 2016, Cheryl found a deep connection with her faith and joined St. Brendan Catholic Church in Mexico, MO, a journey that her husband later shared.
Cheryl is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, two grandsons, and extended family members. She was preceded in death by her parents, cousin, and sister-in-law.
A Mass of Christian Burial was held at St. Brendan Catholic Church in Mexico, MO, followed by entombment at East Lawn Memorial Park Columbariums. Memorial donations can be made to St. Brendan Catholic Church or the Audrain Humane Society in Mexico, MO. Cheryl Maupin Bell’s life was a shining example of dedication, love, and community spirit in Mexico, MO. Her memory will continue to inspire those who knew her.
