Howard Louis Cherry

Howard Louis Cherry, of Midland, was born on August 5, 1931 to Harold Louis Cherry and Jerusha Mae Cherry. He passed away at 10:00am on December 19, 2011 surrounded by his family. He was 80 years old.

He was born and raised in Big Spring, Texas. After graduating high school, he joined the Army and was stationed in Germany. Upon returning home, Howard went to work for a custom home builder, from which he learned his craft. He married Barbara Lavelle Herring in 1956. They made their home in Midland, where in 1967; Howard formed his own building business. He was one of the preeminent custom builders in West Texas and New Mexico. He was a local fixture at the YMCA where he enjoyed both handball and volleyball. He enjoyed hunting and loved to fish. In his later years, he was an avid poker player.

Howard is preceded in death by his wife of 52 years, Barbara Lavelle Cherry, his parents, and his siblings.

He is survived by daughter Debra Bailey and her husband, Jason; his son, Wade Cherry and wife, Laurie; his grandchildren: Kristi Eisenberg and her husband, Glenn; Brad Bailey and his wife, Jennifer; Jared Bailey and his wife, Tracie; Rachel Cherry and her fiancé, Wesley Owens; Molly Cherry and Jason White; his great-grandchildren: Courtney, Zachary, and Bailee Eisenberg, and Jaxon Bailey, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, January 14, 2012 at 3:00pm in Lynn Hall at First Presbyterian Church, 800 W. Texas Avenue. Arrangements are under the direction of Ellis Funeral Home of Midland. Condolences may be made at: www.ellisfunerals.com.