Etta Maria Cherry

She was born December 27, 1922 in Poteet, Texas to Rev. O. G. and Myrtle Barrow. On June 1, 1944 she married her high school and college sweetheart, Wendell H. Cherry, who preceded her in death in 1999.

She obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Education from Baylor University as well as a Masters Degree in Bilingual Early Childhood Education, and dedicated her life to that field. She was an educator and an encourager, teaching Spanish in high school and college for more than 60 years. In addition, she was a Child Development Associate Representative for the last 30 years, conducting assessments all over the United States.

Her love of languages also took her to Europe many times. She studied diligently and taught Bible throughout her life. She was a member of First Baptist Churches of Lubbock and of San Antonio most of her adult life and cherished her friends there. She was a gifted musician, playing piano and organ, with a beautiful alto singing voice.

She was a voracious reader and remained active in politics. She is survived by loving daughters Linda Collins and husband Paul of Louisiana, and children Eddie and Andrew; Marsha Lopas and husband Terry of Waco, and children Tim, Brian and Melissa; and Karen Smith and husband Ron of Boerne, and children Brad, Elaine and Blake.

The family wants to extend their deep gratitude and appreciation to the caring nurses and staff at St. Catherine's for the friendship and care given to their mother during this last year.