Cherry dedicated 35 years of her life to teaching, inspiring and educating students across the Texas Panhandle. She graduated from West Texas State University (WTSU) with her bachelor’s degree in education in 1967. She began her teaching career in Memphis, Texas, where she taught from 1967 to 1981. She then continued her career in Canyon, Texas, from 1981 to 1998, before teaching at Ascension Academy from 1998 to 2002. After retiring from full-time teaching, Cherry continued to share her love of education by substitute teaching. In April 1982, Cherry married the love of her life, Ben Thomas “B.T.” Spear. Together, they enjoyed traveling with friends and exploring many places, including Ireland and Australia. Their adventures created lasting memories and reflected Cherry’s love for experiencing new places and spending time with those she loved. Above all, Cherry treasured her family. She dearly loved her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, and few things brought her greater joy than watching them play sports. She traveled far and wide to cheer them on, proudly supporting them from the sidelines and celebrating their accomplishments. Her love and dedication to her family were evident in the countless miles she traveled and the many memories she made along the way. Cherry will be lovingly remembered for her dedication to teaching, her love of travel, and, most importantly, her unwavering devotion to her family.
She is survived by her sons, Lyndel Orcutt and wife Janey, and Randell Orcutt and wife Carla; her daughter, Sheryl Phillips and husband Brady; eight grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren, all of whom will cherish her memory.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Ben Thomas “B.T.” Spear; her parents, Herschel and Jewel Groff; and her brother, Darrell Groff.
Cherry’s life was one of service, love, and treasured family moments. Her legacy will live on through the many students she taught, the family she cherished, and the memories she leaves behind.
She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.
