Linglee Cheng

Linglee (Lily) Cheng passed away on Monday, January 22, 2024, at age 71.  Ling was born in Taiwan to parents that immigrated from China.  She is a 76th generation descendant from the philosopher Confucius.  Throughout grade school, Ling was consistently ranked as the top female in her class.  She immigrated to the United States with her husband and was instantly impressed by America's development.  Originally settling in Rockville, Maryland, Ling relocated to Frederick, Maryland where she would reside for the second half of her life.  

For 25 years, Ling worked for Zimmerman and Associates, Inc. starting as a clerk (serving the Food and Drug Administration).  The daily commute was very difficult and grueling to her but in regards to her work, she was obedient, consistent, and had intense passion for detail and accuracy.  She is thankful for her opportunities from ZAI and the United States government.  

Ling's marriage can be described as struggle, sacrifice, and survival.  It was common for her and her husband to boast to one another about their frugality and bargain finds, then tease and antagonize each other for being cheap and stingy.  Without a doubt, without question, it was second nature to Ling to loyally and selflessly serve her family.  It was not until after her husband's passing that she would finally (and routinely) admit that he was a good-looking man along with her usual criticisms.  

Ling was a simple minimalist, her favorite hobby was to sit near a window and complete Sudoku puzzles.  Far from a tiger mom, Ling's parenting was free-spirited, she enjoyed following and supporting the feedback, encouragement, and activities of the public school system for her son who was unconditionally the love of her life.  Extremely shy, introverted, and self-conscious of her command of the English language, Ling loved it when neighbors would strike up a conversation with her, she enjoyed being a part of this community.  After retirement, Ling found happiness in taking classes at Frederick Community College in the continuing education program for seniors.

Never forgetting her roots, the success of Ling's family is directly attributed to her toughness and grit.  After receiving a life changing diagnosis, Ling valiantly fought till the end while constantly expressing her strength.  During this time, she was cared for by her son and loved watching baseball, listening to music, playing on her phone, and dramatically living to the fullest.  Overwhelmed by the support and care of the community and healthcare system, Ling's belief that America is exceptional continued to be reaffirmed.  She passed away at Frederick (Memorial) Health Hospital where she embodied life, fight, and hope.  With her husband, Ling's final resting place will be at the US Zen Institute temple.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Yang Cheng (https://www.staufferfuneralhome.com/obituaries/Yang-Cheng) survived by her son, William Cheng, and step-daughter Anna Cheng. 

In memory of Mrs. Ling Cheng, flowers can be sent to US ZEN INSTITUTE 19225 Liberty Mill Rd, Germantown, MD 20874.