Cheryl (Wates) Kunzer

Cheryl Wates Kunzer of Gainesville, Ga. went to be with the Lord on Sunday, March 29 th , 2026. Cheryl was born in Birmingham, Alabama on July 28, 1944 to JD and Virginia Wates. She grew up in Bessemer, Al. and graduated from Bessemer High School where she was a cheerleader and was voted “Best Conversationalist.” Cheryl attended the University of Alabama and pledged to Zeta Tau Alpha Sorority. She lived in Birmingham for many years where she met and later married Ray Kunzer in 1985. Shortly after marriage, they moved to Georgia. 

Cheryl dedicated much of her career to the public school system before retiring in 2010. She and Ray lived many years in Clayton, Georgia where she and Ray served the community with the Meals on Wheels Program. Together they touched many lives during their service. Cheryl was a devoted wife, mother, sister and was a special “Dee Dee” to her many grandchildren and great grandchildren. Cheryl loved to travel, and enjoyed the outdoor life of hiking, skiing and boating. She cherished her family above all else.

Cheryl was preceded in death by her parents, J.D and Virginia Wates. Cheryl is survived by her husband of over 40 years, Ray Kunzer, daughter Kimberly Matchen (Gene) of Birmingham, sons, Keith Maple (Reesie) of Birmingham, Al. and Todd Maple (Shea) of Birmingham, Al., grandchildren Katie and Daniel Matchen, Nash and Emily Maple, Bella and Giana Maple., sisters Ginger McDaniel (Sam) and Diane Wright (Gary). Stepdaughters, Karen Kunzer, Snowmass, Co., Paige Kunzer, Gainesville, GA, Stacy Greene (Daren) Acworth, GA, and Ray, Jr. (Tammy), Wentzville, MO., 9 step grandchildren and 8 great step grandchildren.

The family will have a private service on April 25 th to celebrate Cheryl’s life.

Those wishing to send online condolences to the family may do so at littledavenport.com

Little & Davenport Funeral Home and Crematory, 355 Dawsonville Highway, SW, Gainesville, Georgia 30501 is in charge of arrangements.

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