Cheri Elliott Torano

Cheri Elliott Torano, 57, had a remarkable gift for bringing light wherever she went. With her vibrant spirit, radiant smile, unmistakable gorgeous red hair, and generous heart, she made people feel welcome, valued, and loved. After a courageous battle with cancer, Cheri passed away peacefully at home on June 27, 2026, surrounded by her devoted husband, Michael Torano, and the love of her family.

 Born on January 27, 1969, in Aurora, Illinois, Cheri's family moved to Knoxville in 1975. She graduated from Bearden High School in 1987 and later earned a Bachelor of Science in Marketing and Journalism from the University of Tennessee in 1996.

Cheri built an accomplished career in marketing, most recently serving in the Office of Communications and Marketing at the University of Tennessee. As a Project Manager, she helped coordinate brand and advertising campaigns that supported the university's mission across the State and the Country. Before joining UT, she spent twelve years with Warner Bros. Discovery, and Scripps Networks, where she managed marketing operations and complex projects for more than 500 national advertisers, including many Fortune 500 companies.

 Beyond her professional achievements, Cheri embraced life with enthusiasm. She was an accomplished yoga instructor, an adventurous traveler who explored 22 countries, a talented model for runway, print, and television, and a music lover who never passed up the chance to attend a great concert, often with her beloved nephew, Christopher. Ever the devoted foodie, she had a well-documented affection for McDonald's Diet Coke. Above all, Cheri had an extraordinary love of animals, especially her Border Collies, Ferris Bueller, and Saxa, who rarely left her side and remained with her through her final days.

 On October 5, 2018, Cheri married the love of her life, Michael Torano, who currently serves as the Director of Development for the Knoxville Symphony Orchestra. Together they built a life filled with love, 10-year-old boy's humor, and devotion. She was a proud and loving stepmother to Logan and Pierce Torano, who adored her and stood beside her throughout her illness with unwavering strength and love.

 Cheri is survived by her husband, Michael; her stepsons, Logan and Pierce Torano; her mother, Mona Elliott; her sister, Teri King; her brother, Gerry Elliott; her great nephew, C.J. Griffith, affectionately known as "Ginger Nugget."; her niece, Danielle Griffith (husband, Carl); and her nephew, Christopher King.

 She was preceded in death by her father, Robert Elliot; her grandparents, Wilburn and Opal Edmonds; and her uncle, Gary Edmonds.

 In keeping with Cheri's wishes, she was cremated, and without visitation, funeral services, or celebration of life. She wished to be remembered not by a final gathering, but as she lived...full of life, laughter, and joy.

Cheri's greatest legacy is not found in accomplishments, but in the countless lives she touched through her kindness, friendship, and love. Share the laughter, create the memories, and never take a single moment together for granted. Connections are life's greatest gift, and they endure long after we say goodbye.

 You are encouraged to share a memory of Cheri and/or your personal condolences with her family by visiting her memorial webpage and guestbook at www.companionfunerals.com. Companion Funeral & Cremation Service of Oak Ridge, TN, is honored to assist the family with these arrangements.