TUCSON, Ariz. — The Community Mourns the Sudden Loss of Cheryl Jeanene Cathey, 56, Following Tragic Off-Road Vehicle Crash
The Tucson community is grappling with shock and sorrow following the tragic death of Cheryl Jeanene Cathey, a 56-year-old beloved mother, friend, and local resident, who lost her life in a fatal off-road vehicle crash on the evening of October 9, 2025.
According to officials with the Pima County Sheriff’s Department, emergency responders were dispatched just after 7:30 p.m. to a remote desert area near Redington Pass — a popular but rugged location for off-road and recreational activities east of Tucson. Witnesses reported that the utility terrain vehicle (UTV) in which Cheryl was a passenger lost control on a steep embankment before rolling multiple times.
Despite immediate life-saving efforts by first responders and bystanders who attempted CPR at the scene, Cheryl Cathey was pronounced dead before she could be transported to a nearby medical facility. Authorities have not released the identity of the driver, but preliminary investigations suggest the incident was a tragic accident, with no signs of impairment or foul play currently suspected.
A Life Full of Compassion and Connection
Cheryl Cathey was more than a name in a tragic headline — she was known for her warmth, kindness, and ability to make people feel seen and valued. She spent over two decades working in healthcare administration and was often described by coworkers as the “heart of the office” for her constant encouragement, compassion, and radiant positivity.
She leaves behind two children and four grandchildren who were the light of her life. Friends and family recall her love for the outdoors — hiking the Catalina Foothills, exploring Arizona’s desert beauty, and always encouraging others to “breathe the fresh air and find the sunshine.”
“She was the kind of person who would drop everything to help a friend or even a stranger,” said longtime friend Maria Lopez. “Her loss has left a hole in this community that cannot be filled.”
Remembered by a Community in Mourning
News of Cheryl’s sudden passing has rippled throughout the Tucson area, prompting an outpouring of grief and remembrance on social media and within local organizations she had been involved with. Her church congregation, coworkers, and outdoor enthusiast groups have all shared condolences, photographs, and memories in tribute to the woman many called “a quiet light in dark times.”
“Cheryl’s spirit will live on through her kindness, her faith, and the people she lifted up every single day,” said Pastor Reuben Harris of the Tucson Unity Church, where Cheryl was a regular volunteer. “She embodied the values of grace, service, and strength.”
Investigation Ongoing, Safety Emphasized
As investigators continue to reconstruct the events leading to the crash, Pima County officials are urging caution for all residents participating in off-road and backcountry recreational activities, especially in areas with steep terrain and loose gravel. They remind the public that safety gear, proper training, and familiarity with routes are crucial.
The Sheriff’s Department confirmed that the UTV involved was a privately owned vehicle, and initial mechanical assessments showed no immediate signs of malfunction. A full investigation is underway, and results will be released to the family once concluded.
Honoring Cheryl’s Life and Legacy
A public memorial service is scheduled for Wednesday, October 15, at 11 a.m. at Angel Valley Funeral Home in Tucson. Family and friends are invited to celebrate Cheryl’s life by sharing stories, photographs, and the many ways she left an imprint on their lives.
In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations be made to the Southern Arizona Rescue Association (SARA), a volunteer-run group that supports outdoor safety and recovery missions — a cause close to Cheryl’s heart.
As Tucson continues to mourn, Cheryl Jeanene Cathey’s name will be remembered not just as part of a tragedy, but as part of a life beautifully lived — one defined by generosity, resilience, and love.
Rest in peace, Cheryl. You are deeply missed, and never forgotten.
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