Cherry Micalizio, a longtime resident of Blythe, California, passed away peacefully in her sleep on Friday, October 16, 2026, just one month shy of her 104th birthday. She was surrounded by her three sons.

Cherry was born on November 18, 1922, in Cleveland, Ohio. Shortly after her birth, her family returned to London, England, where she grew up and completed her secondary education. She later returned to the United States and completed her nursing training in Alliance, Ohio.

In 1948, Cherry moved to Blythe, California, to pursue her nursing career. It was there that she met her husband, Paul Micalizio, and Blythe became her lifelong home.

Cherry dedicated much of her professional life to caring for others at Palo Verde Hospital, where she served as head nurse until her retirement. She later helped manage her husband's restaurant, The Stardust Lounge, a familiar establishment in the Blythe community.

An intelligent, curious, and remarkably independent woman, Cherry had a lifelong love of learning and a particular passion for movies. Over the years, she amassed an extraordinary collection of approximately 4,600 films, which she personally recorded from television. She meticulously catalogued the collection in a computer database she created herself, allowing movies to be searched by title, actor, director, year, and genre. It was a remarkable accomplishment and a reflection of her dedication, organization, and sharp mind.

Even as she approached her 104th birthday, Cherry remained mentally active and engaged with the world around her. She continued using her computer daily.

Above all, Cherry will be remembered for her thoughtfulness, compassion, intelligence, and the love she shared with her family. She lived a long and fulfilling life, setting an example of strength, independence, and lifelong curiosity. Her influence and the values she instilled will continue through the generations of her family.

Cherry was preceded in death by her husband, Paul Micalizio, who passed away in 1988. She is survived by her three sons, Paul Micalizio of Doniphan, Missouri; Terry Micalizio of Dallas, Texas; and Bruce Micalizio of Blythe, Califonia. She is also survived by three grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

Cherry's remarkable 104 years were a gift to those who knew and loved her. She leaves behind a legacy of love, compassion, and cherished memories that will live on in the hearts of her family and friends.