Richard Wayne Cherry's Obituary
Richard Wayne Cherry was born on August 25, 1946 in St. Mary’s
Hospital to George C. Cherry, Sr. and Myrtle Mayhew Cherry in St. Louis,
Missouri. Both parents and older brother George C. Cherry, Jr. preceded
him in death.
Richard grew up in the historic “Ville” area. He enjoyed swimming,
wrestling and playing tennis at the Tandy Center and park. He attended
Turner Elementary and graduated from Sumner High School in 1964.
Richard Wayne married his high school sweetheart, Astra Davis in
1967. To this union was born one daughter, Angela Richelle Cherry. On
September 9, 2017, Richard and Astra were blessed to celebrate 50
years of marriage.
He accepted Jesus Christ at an early age while attending St. James
A.M.E. Church.
Richard and Astra loved to skate, dance and were bopping champs.
Richard’s personal favorite past time was playing Poker (“dealer’schoice-deuces-are-wild”)
and Tonk with his buddies. He also enjoyed
driving his Yukon truck while listening to Jazz or Blues. Richard knew
the ends and outs of professional sports. He loved to dress and was
fashion conscious however, didn’t give into fads or trends. Levine hats
and baseball caps were always a part of his accessories.
Richard worked many hard years at Lincoln McNeil St. Louis,
Engineering. He retired at age 55, loved it and vowed never to work
again!
Doctors, nurses, and caregivers described Richard as steadfast,
cooperative and a pleasant patient. However, after many months of
battling his illness, on Tuesday, December 5, 2017, Richard’s battle
ended while at home with his wife by his side. He leaves to cherish his
memory: his wife ~ Astra; daughter ~ Angela (Kanzi); granddaughters ~
Tylar and Anaya; grandson ~ Kanzi Jeremiah (K.J.); sisters-in-law ~
Brenda Cherry, LaRita Renee Johnson and Alriana Bonita Maufas; two
goddaughters nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, great-great
nieces and nephew, a host of cousins and close friends.
What’s your fondest memory of Richard?
What’s a lesson you learned from Richard?
Share a story where Richard's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Richard you’ll never forget.
How did Richard make you smile?