Dr. John Paul Cherry

It is with deep sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of John Paul Cherry, 85, of Arthurdale, WV.  John passed away on Saturday, April 4, 2026, at his home, surrounded by his loving family. Born on January 31, 1941, in Rhinebeck, New York, he was the son of the late John Cherry and Susann (Borovsky) Cherry.

John had a long and distinguished career as Director of the U.S.D.A. Eastern Regional Research Center (ERRC) in Pennsylvania. He was a highly respected researcher and consultant in food chemistry, authoring or co-authoring over 130 publications, including 25 book chapters. His many honors included the prestigious Presidential Rank Award, Meritorious Executive, for outstanding management and research contributions. He traveled to more than 100 countries sharing his expertise.

He earned a B.S. in Biology from Furman University, a Master’s degree from West Virginia University, and a Ph.D. in Agricultural Biochemistry and Genetics from the University of Arizona.

John was affiliated with several professional organizations, including the U.S.A.–Japan National Research Food and Agriculture Panel, the Institute of Food Technologists, and the American Oil Chemists’ Society. He was also actively involved in the Arthurdale Heritage Organization, the WVU Athletic Club, and was an alumni member of the Sigma Alpha Epsilon Fraternity.

He was a faithful member of Arthurdale Community Presbyterian Church. John enjoyed gardening, watching WVU sports, and had a passion for Cadillacs and Corvettes. Above all, he cherished spending time with his wife and family.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 62 years, Janet Carrol (Day) Cherry; daughters Jamie Cherry and husband David Sitek of Olathe, Kansas, and Janine Cherry Chidwick and husband John Chidwick of Mooresville, North Carolina; brother Dr. Donald Cherry of Blacksburg, Virginia; and four grandchildren: Cory Sitek, Jenna Chidwick, Johnny Chidwick, and Abigail Sitek.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Morgan Funeral Home, 13411 Veterans Memorial Highway, Reedsville, West Virginia.  Additional visitation will take place on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, beginning at 10:00 a.m., with the funeral service at 11:00 a.m.  The service will be officiated by Reverend Steven E. Lightner, followed by interment at Arthurdale Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Preston County Hospital Oncology and Infusion Center.  Checks can be made out to “PMH Foundation”, with the memo line reading “Dove Fund.”  Online condolences may be sent to the Cherry family at www.morganfunferalhomewv.com.  Morgan Funeral Home is honored to serve the Cherry Family.

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