Mr. Herman Cherry, of Madison, Fla., died peacefully at his home on Tuesday, March 17, 2020, at the age of 93.
The last remaining WWII veteran in Madison County, Herman served in Germany in the 35th Constabulary Squadron and was honorably discharged in 1947. He returned to Madison and was married to Myrtle Hendry on March 27, 1949. He was employed by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission, and then served as the Chief of Police of Madison from 1952 until 1975. He worked as an Investigator for the Florida Department of Professional Regulations from 1975 until his retirement in 1991. Herman faithfully cared for his wife through a prolonged illness, and later continued his service to Madison as a City Commissioner from 1998 to 2002. He was also a member of the Florida Police Chiefs Association.
He was a longtime member and deacon at First Baptist Church of Madison, and enjoyed entertaining his many friends and family at his frequent cookouts.
He was preceded in death by his parents: M.W. Cherry Sr. and Mary Ann McKay; his wife, Myrtle (Hendry); his daughter, Lydia Coody; and four brothers: Mark Cherry, Jr., John Cherry, Larrie Cherry and Prentiss Cherry. Mr. Cherry is survived by his son, Craig Cherry, of New Smyrna Beach, Fla.; son-in-law, Randy Coody; four grandchildren: Nickole Scott, Jennifer Coody, Allison Pruiett and Tyler Coody; and four great-grandchildren.
A memorial service in remembrance of Mr. Cherry will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, anyone wishing to honor Herman may do so through a contribution to one of his favorite charities, St. Jude's Children Hospital or the Wounded Warrior Foundation.