Anna Catherine Malarchuk Cheney

Anna Catherine Malarchuk Cheney was born on December 26, 1970, in San Antonio, Texas. Her mother would say she was the best Christmas gift they ever received. She was born into a military family who moved frequently; she endured hot summers in Florida and braved cold winters of Alaska before her family settled in Warner Robins. Anna was the only child of Paul Malarchuk, who retired from the Air Force and played with the Air Force Jazz ensemble, and Sheena Shumate, a retired schoolteacher and a member of the Daughters of the British Empire. She was an advocate and supporter of our Armed Forces. Anna graduated with a B.A. in Psychology and worked in the mental health field for almost 30 years, serving the community and advocating for families and children. She had a heart for the underdog. Anna was able to see those that felt unseen and hear words never spoken. She loved well and had a heart for justice. Anna was as feral as she was kind; strong, determined, and unswerving. This amazing character trait held her fast when as a young adult, she gave her heart to Jesus. Anna loved her Creator and she reveled in His creation. She loved the sunrise and sunset, the mist of rain on her cheek, the breeze in her hair, the warmth of the sun, the sound of waves crashing, and the rushing sound of a mountain stream. She found joy in simple things. A good cup of coffee, a long conversation, laughter, and time spent with those she loved. Anna was a fighter. She finally won her long battle with cancer and went to her permanent home on Christmas morning.

Anna is preceded in death by her father, Paul Malarchuk, her (she called heavenly) father, Doug Shumate, her mother, Sheena Shumate, the sister of her heart, Lisa Ashley-Mcnew, the girls of her heart, Harper, Chloe, and Greer Mcnew, her beloved mother/friend, Lisa Prince, and her extended family of Bonaire Church who supported and served her every step of her walk home.

A visitation will be held on Wednesday, January 3, 2024, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at Bonaire Church with a celebration of life to immediately following at 11:00 a.m.

Anna loved her church. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating in Anna’s name to Bonaire Church at 221 Church Street, Bonaire, GA 31005.