Cheryl Darlene Fowler, 71, passed away Sunday, February 15, 2026, while in residence at Inverness in Spartanburg. Born October 8, 1954, in Spartanburg County, she was the daughter of the late Virginia Ruth Burch Fowler and John Arthur Fowler. She was predeceased by two brothers, Douglas Ray Fowler of Panama City Beach, Florida, and John Arthur Fowler, Jr.

Cheryl’s father, Art, was widely known. He was the legendary major league baseball pitcher and coach (NY Yankees) from Converse, an inducted member of the SC Athletic Hall of Fame. From an early age, she was introduced to the world of athletics and sports, and several national baseball celebrities. Both her parents, Art and Ruth, faithfully attended her games and encouraged her natural athletic ability and love of competition.

A proud graduate of Cowpens High School, Class of 1972, Cheryl made her mark on the girls’ basketball team and quickly established herself as a standout athlete. She continued her education at the University of South Carolina Upstate where she excelled in collegiate athletics.

While playing NCAA Division 1 women’s basketball for USC Upstate, Cheryl earned several awards. These included the “Most Valuable Player” honors for the 1976-77 and 1978-79 seasons.

After earning her Bachelor of Science Degree in Education, Cheryl devoted several years of teaching in South Carolina public schools.

She participated in several softball and golf programs after college and earned many awards and trophies as a player and coach in the USSSA South Carolina slow pitch softball program.

Cheryl followed her true passion -animals-by entering the pet grooming profession. She worked and co-owned several shops, (AC Grooming Salon, Dapper Dogs), before later operating her own grooming business from home. Her love for animals was always evident in her work, as she built lasting relationships with clients who trusted her with their beloved pets.

Cheryl will be remembered for her athletic excellence, independent spirit, and deep love for animals. Her legacy of dedication, strength, and compassion will live on in the many lives she touched.

Cheryl is survived by her brother, Roger Strickland (Nan) of Boiling Springs, a nephew, Pete Fowler (Jennie) of Spartanburg, a niece, Ginger Fowler Evans (Tracy) of Boiling Springs, a sister-in-law, Gail Linder Fowler, and a cousin Pam Ginsburg of DC. The family wants to send a special message of love and thank you to the family of her late cousin, Dr. Earl Burch and his wife Scooty of Clemson. A special thank you also goes to Cheryl’s lifelong friend Sharon Moneyhan Childers.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Spartanburg Hospice, 686 Jeff Davis Drive, Spartanburg, SC 29303 or the Spartanburg Humane Society, 150 Dexter Road, Spartanburg, SC 29303.