Wilbur Eugene Cherry

Mr. Wilbur Eugene Cherry was the first born of Eugene Blue and Thressa Cherry, in Chicago, IL, on December 15, 1939. Thressa would later move her family to Des Moines, IA where Eugene graduated from Valley High School. He would later continue his education at Des Moines Area Community College. In 1960, Eugene enlisted into the United States Army and served until he earned his honorable discharge in 1963. During that time, he found that he was only 8 points shy of being cleared for military intelligence.

After his service in the armed forces, Eugene relocated to New Orleans, where he attended U.N.O. He would make New Orleans his home for several years. Later, Eugene entered the work force. He worked several jobs in the IT and Sales fields. Eugene spent the majority of his career at IBM and Meredith Company.

At a young age Eugene developed a deep baritone voice that he would use to sing in several singing groups. Known as Duke Cherry, Eugene lent his vocal gifts to Vince Vance and the Valliant's and the V.A. Group of Singing Veterans and others. Eugene also had a knack for cooking. A food connoisseur, Eugene loved the taste of food just as much as he enjoyed cooking it. Food was an experience for Eugene so much as he loved buffets and was often lovingly referred to as a "garbage can" by his family. He also enjoyed playing chess, tennis, swimming and was an instructor for them all. He also participated in various veterans activities and working at the Commission for the blind. Even though his sight got dim, he willed himself to continue being active. He even took up bowling, golfing and Tae Kwan Do He let nothing stop him.

On February 19, 2020, Eugene closed his eyes for the last time as he transitioned into sweet slumber. He was preceded in death by his a daughter, Kalandra Cherry; parents, Thressa (Cherry) Lamar and Eugene Blue; brothers, Carl Lamar, Larry Lamar and Michael Lamar.

Left to cherish Eugenes memory are his remaining children, Jaquinta Cherry, Tristan Cherry, Daman Cherry, Recina Cherry, Brandon Cherry, Jessica Cherry, Jamie Cherry, Jenelle Cherry and Jackie Cherry; siblings, Dennis Lamar, Pamela Lamar, Wayne Lamar, Omega James and Judy Lamar, Ronnie, Magdaline, Jeannie, Scott and Elaine Blue as well as a host of grandchildren other relatives and friends.