Community Mourns Loss of Cheryl Portman, Beloved Family Figure

Cheryl Portman, a cherished member of the St. Joseph community, passed away on November 28, 2025, following a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. She was 67 years old and is remembered for her kindness, humor, and dedication to her family and friends.

Born on July 14, 1958, to CW Gillett and Elsie (Slifer) Gillett, Cheryl graduated from Lafayette High School in 1976. She pursued higher education, earning a Bachelor’s degree from Missouri Western State University and an MBA from William Woods University. Cheryl dedicated her professional life to the field of Human Resources, working at Quaker Oats until its closure and later at Mosaic Health System as a Physician Recruiter until her passing.

Cheryl’s personal life was deeply intertwined with her family. She married Patrick Portman on April 18, 1980, and together they raised two children, Megan and Trevor. After Patrick’s death in 2008, Cheryl found love again with Rodney Grayson, marrying him on June 18, 2022. The couple embraced their new family, welcoming Rodney’s children and grandchildren into their lives.

Cheryl was an avid traveler, exploring 45 states and numerous countries over the years. She enjoyed many cruises and shared her passion for travel with friends and family. A devoted fan of the Kansas City Chiefs, she held season tickets for over 25 years and cherished the tradition of traveling to away games with friends.

Her greatest joy, however, came from her grandchildren. Cheryl often expressed that her only regret was not having more time to spend with them. Her love for family and community left a lasting impact, and she will be missed by all who knew her.

Cheryl is preceded in death by her husband Pat, her parents, her brother Steve Gillett, and her nephew Ray Dydell. She is survived by her husband Rodney, children Megan Moore (Caleb) and Trevor Portman (Ashton), along with his children Mara Agosto (Casden), Marisa Grayson (Kameron Hylton), and Jesslyn Grayson. She also leaves behind 12 grandchildren, sisters Pam Hackathorn (Darrell) and Carol Ferguson, and numerous in-laws, nieces, and nephews.

Cheryl’s remains have been cremated under the care of Heaton-Bowman-Smith-Sidenfaden Chapel in St. Joseph. A visitation will take place at Frederick Boulevard Baptist Church, located at 5502 Frederick, St. Joseph, MO 64507, on December 4, 2025, from 16:00 to 19:00. Her Celebration of Life service is scheduled for December 5, 2025, at 15:00, officiated by Pastor Doug Walter.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Cheryl Portman Rural Medicine Scholarship at [www.mymlc.com/giving](http://www.mymlc.com/giving) or by sending checks payable to Mosaic Health System at Mosaic Life Care, C/O Philanthropy Department, 5325 Faraon Street, Suite 1115A, St. Joseph, MO 64506. Those who wish to honor Cheryl’s memory may also consider donations to Ashland Methodist Church.

Cheryl Portman’s legacy of love and resilience will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know her. As she once encouraged, take time to embrace your loved ones and cherish the moments that matter most.