Cheryl Dee Bennett, 70, passed away peacefully on February 9, 2026. Born in Kansas City, Missouri, she was lovingly adopted by Wilma and Charles Dishman and grew up in Wichita, Kansas, where she built lifelong roots and cherished memories.

Cheryl spent many years in Missouri raising her four children alongside her husband. During that chapter of her life, she met her devoted life partner, Michael Wheatley. Together they later moved to Oregon, sharing eleven meaningful years before Cheryl eventually returned home to Wichita, Kansas.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Wilma and Charles Dishman; her common-law husband, Michael Wheatley; her beloved son, Micah James Bennett; and her grandson, Bradley Bennett.

She is survived by her brother, Phil Dishman; her daughters, Krista (Kevin) Wardlow, Jamie Bennett, and Dawna Bennett; her cherished grandchildren, Elyzabeth (Cody) Wilson, Caleb and Seth Lilly, Mackenzie Pike, Madison Wier, Mercedes Wardlow, Arianna Bennett, and Hunter Baker; and her treasured great-granddaughters, Thalia and Raelynn Wilson.

Horses held a special place in Cheryl's heart, and in her younger years she found joy and freedom in riding, with a particular admiration for black stallions. She enjoyed tending to plants and flowers, camping, and surrounding herself with the music she loved. From watching hummingbirds drift through her garden to jamming to classic rock, Cheryl found happiness in life's simple, everyday moments. Her warmth, strength, and love for her family will be remembered always.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Oakview Christian Church, 4403 S. Greenhaven St., Wichita, Kansas 67216, on Sunday, March 1st at 5:00 p.m.

Arrangements are by Affordable Cremations Plus, Wichita, Ks.