It is with a warm remembrance and profound respect that we announce the passing of Mike Cherry, age 81 of Princeton, who left us on February 21, 2024, at Dawson Springs Health and Rehabilitation.
Born in Princeton, Kentucky on February 6, 1943, to his late parents, Everett and Winnie Cherry.
Mike embarked upon the path of higher education and attained a Bachelor of Science from Murray State University, a Master of Science from the University of Louisville, and further enhanced his academic portfolio with Master Equivalency from both the Naval War College and the National Defense University. His thirst for knowledge was evident in each aspect of his illustrious career and personal endeavors.
Mike proudly served his nation as a Captain in the United States Navy, bringing honor to his family and country through his service in the Vietnam War. His service took him and his family from Guantanamo Bay and Honolulu to Italy. He served as the public affairs officer for the Sixth Fleet in the Mediterranean, spokesman for the Commander in Chief of the Pacific Fleet, and ended his service in Norfolk, VA as Chief of Public Information for the North Atlantic Treaty Organization’s (NATO) Supreme Allied Commander Atlantic.
After retiring from naval life, he channeled his entrepreneurial spirit into the rejuvenation of his beloved hometown. In the 1990s, he pioneered the downtown Princeton renaissance, renovating six business district storefronts, opening the Big Springs Antique Mall, and reviving the Capitol Theater, once again offering silver screen entertainment to the smallest county in Kentucky with a cinema.
His political journey began in high school as President of the Kentucky Young Democrats and the youngest delegate for the 1960 Democratic Convention that nominated John F. Kennedy. In November 1998 he was elected as the former Kentucky State Representative (D), serving the 4th Legislative District of Caldwell, Crittenden, Livingston and part of McCracken Counties until his retirement in 2012. Mike’s tenure was characterized by dedication and groundbreaking achievements, such as being the first person from Caldwell County to be elected to the legislature in nearly 40 years and maintaining the honor of being one of the longest-serving members in recent history.
Mike’s legislative legacy included serving as Chairman of the State Government Committee, the Agriculture and Small Business Committee, the Veterans, Military Affairs, and Public Safety Committee, the Education Committee, and leadership as Vice Chair of the Appropriations & Resources Committee. He was instrumental in enacting over 40 bills, including the first reform bill of the State Pension System and Kentucky’s inaugural Bullying Bill, earning him accolades such as the “Kids First Advocacy Award” and the “Heavy Hitter” Award. His impacts include securing millions of dollars for local infrastructure improvements and community projects, thus aid in transforming Caldwell County.
Beyond his political ventures, Mike’s community engagement was substantial. His passion for community advancement led to his roles including Elder and former Treasurer of Central Presbyterian Church, participation in the Caldwell County High School Site-Based Decision-Making Council, founding member of Caldwell County Free Clinic, member of the Princeton Tourism Commission, and the Kentucky School-to-Work Council.
His profound ability to inspire change was echoed in County Judge Van Knight’s compliment, attesting to the unprecedented level of state support Mike garnered for the area. Numerous awards celebrated Mike’s contributions, including Citizen of the Year titles from organizations like Kiwanis and Woodmen of the World, and community distinctions such as the Chamber of Commerce Achievement Award for Outstanding Community Service. His pride shone brightly when he led as Grand Marshal in the Chamber of Commerce Christmas Parade and upon receiving the Key to the City from former Mayor Danny Beavers.
Mike Cherry was an interesting, spirited, and endlessly funny man whose legacy is imprinted on the community he served with such commitment. His influence will resonate within the community and in the hearts of those who cherished him. Mike Cherry’s life stands as a testament to the extraordinary impact one person can have on the world around them.
Mike is lovingly survived by his devoted wife of 53 years, Dixie Gale Cherry, his son, Davis Rudd Cherry of Brooklyn, New York, and his sister, Dinah Sue Marshall of Alexandria, Virginia.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Everett and Winnie Davis Cherry.
Visitation will be held from 4:00 until 8:00 p.m. on Friday, February 23, 2024, at Morgan’s Funeral Home in Princeton.
Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 24, 2024, at Central Presbyterian Church in Princeton with Pastor Steve Fortenberry officiating. A reception will follow in the church Fellowship Hall.
