James Cherry

James Ralph Cherry went to be with the Lord on May 28, 2023, at the age of 75, while
surrounded by loved ones. His battles with physical challenges over the past several
years were faced with a courageous and joyful approach as he lived everyday with a
smile and loving words of encouragement for others.
James is survived by his wife of 55 years, Kathryn Louise Cherry, his daughter, Jennifer
Long and her husband Michael Long, son Jimmy Cherry and his wife Jaime Cherry, and
son Jasper Cherry and his wife Trish Cherry. James is also survived by his
grandchildren Katy Wilcox and husband Lewis Wilcox, Michael Long II and wife Rachel
Long, Dalton Cherry, Austin Cherry, Jazmynn Cherry, Daniel Cherry, and O.C., as well
as numerous great grandchildren. Jim’s love for his family was surpassed only by his
love for our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. He found great joy in sharing the gospel of
Christ with others wherever he went!
Jim served proudly in the United States Air Force from 1966 to 1973. He loved using his
talents as a trumpet player while serving as an honor guard and playing TAPS for fallen
military heroes at funeral services within our local community.
He was a skilled builder and worked in construction for many years before being called
to pastor. He also served as a Children’s Church teacher, Royal Rangers leader, in the
bus ministry, and for Nursing Home Services.
James will be honored with a memorial service at Basham Funeral Home located at
3312 Niles Street on June 14, 2023 at 10:00 am. There will be a graveside service
immediately following at the Bakersfield National Cemetery located at 30338 E. Bear
Mountain Blvd, Arvin, CA. 93203. These graveside services will begin promptly at 12:30
pm.