Roxanne Eden Cheves

A LIFE LESS ORDINARY

The recent thunder storms shook walls and rattled windows along the Santa Barbara mountainside, but they took a life in their wake, a life less ordinary. Roxanne Eden Cheves was born September 25, 1956 at Santa Barbara’s Cottage Hospital. The daughter of Dr. and Mrs. Roswell Cheves, she is survived by her mother, Geneva, and brother Roswell. Severely brain damaged during delivery,
Roxanne’s first breath was nothing short of a miracle. While the best minds predicted her disabilities would preclude ever walking or talking, she overcame the odds and entered the Santa Barbara public school system at the age of 10 after attending various private schools. She completed her high school education at Santa Barbara High School, but never matriculated, choosing instead to serve the community that had graciously nurtured her.

Roxanne’s career was wide and varied including convalescent homes, Work Inc., SB City College, Braille Institute, Adult Education Center, and Alpha Resource Center. She came in contact with many people as an aid worker, a student, manufacturing employee, kitchen staff, mentor and sales associate finally settling on an arts and crafts career that combined all her talents. Always a champion for those with disabilities, she shared her own work and skills with many less fortunate. She understood, she cared, and she made a difference.

The late evening thunder of October 18th startled Roxanne resulting in a massive coronary and organ shutdown. Her life support was removed and she passed peacefully shortly before dawn on October 19, 2010. She will be missed by family, friends and the community centers she supported. May the lord keep our angel safe.

Services will be 10AM, Monday, November 1st at McDermott‐Crockett mortuary. Those wishing to remember Roxanne may contribute to Alpha Resource Center and Braille Institute.