Bessie Mae Cheek

Graveside services for Bessie Mae Cheek, 72, of Lufkin will be held Saturday, September 26, 2026 at 1:30 p.m. at Garden of Memories Memorial Park with Brother James Mills officiating.

Mrs. Cheek was born April 26, 1954 in Jasper, Texas and died Tuesday, September 22, 2026 at her residence. She had resided in Lufkin for more than 20 years. She enjoyed woodworking and refurbishing furniture. She was of the Baptist faith.

Survivors include her children, Nichole Denman of San Antonio, Michael Sheldon of Houston, Laura Garcia Leija of Lufkin, and Kevin Sheldon of Arkansas; grandchildren, Derrick Holst, Victor Mills, Abby Sheldon, Celisia Rodriguez, David Denman, Jr., Devin Sheldon, Darrin Sheldon, Eva Sheldon, Madison Sheldon, Elijah Sheldon, and Samya DeLaRosa; two great-grandchildren; brothers, Walter Matthews of Burke and James Buford Matthews of Central; and a number of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

She was preceded in death by her father, James Buford Matthews, Sr.; mother, Eva Irene (Couey) Whitmire: granddaughter, Christine Maykayla Diaz; and sister, Velma Haynes.

The family will welcome friends and loved ones from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Saturday at Carroway Funeral Home.

Memories and condolences may be added at www.carrowayfuneralhome.com.

Carroway Funeral Home, Lufkin, directors.