It is with broken hearts and immense love that we announce the passing of Cheryl Ann Maffia, of Forked River, on May 27, 2026, at the age of 63. Surrounded by the love of her family, Cheryl left this world leaving behind a legacy of kindness, strength, and unconditional love that will live on forever in the hearts of all who knew and loved her. 

Born on November 17, 1962, in Newark, New Jersey, Cheryl lived in Ocean Gate before moving to Lacey Township in 1992. She lived a life centered around family, compassion, and giving to others. Cheryl was the beloved wife of Daryl Maffia for 44 beautiful years. Together they built a life filled with unwavering love, laughter, treasured memories, and a partnership that served as an inspiration to everyone around them. 

Above all else, Cheryl was a devoted and loving mother to her six children: Jennifer, Daryl and his spouse Ariel, Joey, Anthony and his spouse Krissy, Santina, and Katrina. She poured endless love, guidance, and support into raising a family grounded in strength, loyalty, resilience, and unconditional love. No matter the circumstance, Cheryl was always the heart of the family — the one everyone turned to for comfort, wisdom, encouragement, and unwavering support. 

Nothing brought Cheryl greater joy than being the proud grandmother of six cherished grandchildren: Jonathan, Brody, Camryn, Aiden, Mason, and Elena. They were truly the light of her life, and she adored every moment spent making memories with them, sharing laughter, hugs, and celebrating life’s special moments together. 

Cheryl also deeply loved her farm family, and her greatest pride and joy were her beloved horses, Dante, Lance, and Tucker. She found her greatest peace at the farm, spending time with her “boys,” where her gentle spirit and love for animals shined so brightly. 

She will forever be remembered for her generous heart, gentle soul, unwavering strength, and the way she made everyone feel welcomed, loved, and cared for. Cheryl touched countless lives through simple acts of kindness, selflessness, compassion, and a love that knew no bounds. The lessons she taught, the memories she created, and the love she gave so freely will remain with her family and friends forever. 

Viewing for family and friends will be held on Saturday, May 30, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Mastapeter Memorial Home, 270 Atlantic City Boulevard, Bayville, New Jersey 08721. 

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Cheryl’s memory to Rare Is Beautiful, a charity that has a direct impact on her family: https://rareisbeautiful.org/