ADAMS, Mass. —

Cheryl (Miller) Amato, 82, passed away May 22, 2026 after a short illness, leaving behind a legacy defined by curiosity, compassion, and a deep love for the natural world.

Born August 24, 1943, in North Adams, Massachusetts, she was the daughter of Samuel and Elinor (Brown) Miller. She was raised in the Drury section of Florida, Massachusetts.

Her love of the outdoors began early. As a child, she cherished her summers at Camp Howe 4?H camp, where she made lifelong friends and created memories she carried with her always. A lifelong outdoors enthusiast, Cheryl found joy wherever sky met earth. She spent countless hours hiking wooded trails, kayaking quiet waters, riding horseback, and wandering riverbeds in search of rocks and gemstones that caught her eye. Some of her happiest days were spent exploring the backroads of Franklin and Berkshire counties, guided by her favorite question: “I wonder where this goes.” She was often found exploring a road map, one of dozens she collected over the course of years of enjoying her favorite past time.

Cheryl’s love for animals—especially dogs and horses—was a defining part of her life. A devoted supporter of her local animal shelter, in her adult years she adopted many older dogs over the years, each one welcomed into a home filled with patience, affection, and unwavering care. Each was a cherished companion for as long as they were with her.

She spent 25 years working for General Electric as a self-taught expert in electrical wiring and mechanics. She worked on several of this nation’s most important and sophisticated weapons systems as a time when few women were “on the line.” After a 25-year career at GE, she retired…but not really. Then in her 50s, Cheryl embraced a bold new chapter in her life. She obtained her CDL and went on to enjoy a rewarding second career as a cross?country tractor?trailer driver, traveling the nation’s highways with the same sense of adventure that shaped her life.

After her professional work life transitioned to a truly retired life, she continued to enjoy her passion for the outdoors. She was an avid gardener and even spent a time as an amateur beekeeper. She lived in Pittsfield and Williamstown before settling in Adams. Every August, Cheryl could be found at the Cummington Fair, enjoying the 4-H barns, the community dinner, and the ox draw sharing this yearly tradition with her daughter and grandchildren. At home, in the quiet with her canine companions, Cheryl enjoyed working on crossword puzzles, savoring the challenge and satisfaction of each completed grid.

Cheryl is survived by her daughter Molly (Amato) McCulloch and her husband Mark, of Altamonte Springs, Florida; her granddaughter Allyson of Adams and her partner Jeff Connolly of New Hampshire; her grandson Ian of Altamonte Springs, Florida; her granddaughter Maggie (McCulloch) Welch and her husband Wes of East Longmeadow, Massachusetts; her great-grandchildren Marley and Sophie; her brother Douglas Miller and his partner Paula, of Drury; her sister Susan Miller and her husband Larry, of North Adams; and many nieces and nephews.

A private remembrance with family will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honor Cheryl’s giving, generous spirit are asked to send donations in her name to the Berkshire Humane Society, 214 Barker Road, Pittsfield, MA 01201. Cheryl will be remembered for her independent spirit, her generosity, and the way she embraced life with open arms and an open heart. Her presence will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. To leave a message for Cheryl’s family, please go online to www.paciorekfuneral.com