Mary Ann Cherry was born on November 18, 1948, in Chicago, Illinois to the union of Rosie Lee and Samuel Cherry. Their union was fruitful and produced eight children: Mattie (Hunter), Ethel (Deceased), Charlie Mae (Deceased), Samuel (Deceased), Patricia, Pamela, and Don.

Mary accepted Christ in her life at an early age. She remained strongly committed to her faith all her life. She attended Gammon Memorial Church where she served as an usher. She received her formal education in the Chicago Public Schools where she graduated from John Marshall High School. She was the mother of three sons Darnell (Deceased) and Terrell (Deceased) and Christopher. After graduation, Mary began her career in retail sales for many years. She became interested in the healthcare field where she worked as a Recreational Activities Coordinator for over twenty-five years. She had a down-to-Earth personality and loved listening to Gospel music.  She had the heart of a care giver. She was always making sure other people had what they needed.

Mary's life was a testimony to her faith. Her health failed her and for many years she suffered from illness, but she never complained. She claimed God's strength to endure weariness and pain. She would always say "God is good to me".  Her life's work was built on the foundation that survives through eternity. That foundation being salvation through Jesus Christ.

Mary departed this life on February 1, 2026. Preceding her in death were her parents Samuel and Rosie Lee Cherry; her sister Ethel and her husband Patrick Ray; her sister Charlie Mae Cherry, and her brother Samuel and his wife Hiroko Cherry. She leaves to cherish her memory a son, Christopher, three sisters Mattie, Pamela, and Patricia, and a brother Don. She also leaves a host of nephews, nieces, cousins, and friends.

Good night, Mary. We love you; we miss you, and we will never forget you. Smooches!