Annette Cherry, passed away on July 17, 2026, in Birmingham, Alabama, at the age of 90.
Born on January 29, 1936, in Dothan, Alabama, Annette was the daughter of the late John Skipper and Lois Snell Skipper and carried the values of her upbringing throughout her life. She was a longtime and faithful member of Smyrna Baptist Church, where her presence reflected her quiet strength, steady devotion, and sincere love for the Lord. Her faith was an important part of who she was, and it guided the way she lived each day with grace, humility, and compassion.
Annette was known by those who loved her as a deeply loving person, and that word truly captured the spirit of her life. She had a gentle way about her that made others feel welcome and cared for, and she gave of herself freely to those around her. Her heart belonged first and foremost to her family, and she treasured every moment spent with them. She especially adored her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who brought her immeasurable joy and pride. Her love for them was steadfast and unconditional, and she found great happiness in watching their lives unfold.
A woman of simple pleasures and enduring interests, Annette was an avid reader who enjoyed the comfort and companionship found in a good book. She also loved crocheting, and she took particular delight in making doilies, each one a reflection of her patience, skill, and care. Her handiwork was more than a pastime, for it was an expression of the warmth and thoughtfulness that defined her character. Through her hobbies, she created beauty and left behind tangible reminders of her gentle spirit.
In addition to her parents, Annette was preceded in death by her son, Michael Yance; her brother, Haywood Skipper; and her sister, Betty Spivey.
Annette is survived by her husband, Charles Cherry; her son, Philip Yance (Marjorie); her step-children, Gregory Cherry (Patricia), Beverly Sorensen (Johnny), and Charlotte Smith (John Paul); her grandchildren, Blake Yance (Jessica), Mallorie Petrusson (Justin), Stephen Yance, David Yance, Jessica Yance, Jonathan Sorenson, Carli Welch, Caroline Croom, Alenia Blissett, and Weston Cherry; her great-grandchildren, Weston Yance, Emory Yance, Nolan Petrusson, Claire Petrusson, Carter Yance, Cameron Yance, Stella Yance, A’Marie McGuffie, Maleah Mostella, Myles Mostella, McKensie Mostella, Hattie Cherry, Evie Cherry, Theodore “Teddy” Cherry, Caleb Sorensen, Skylar Welch, Scarlet Welch, Liam Croom, and Lawson Croom; numerous other relatives and friends.
Funeral services will be held at 11 AM, Tuesday, July 21, 2026 at Smyrna Baptist Church with Reverend Jonathan Sorensen officiating. Burial will follow in the adjoining cemetery. The family will receive friends from 10 AM, Tuesday, one hour prior to the service at the church.
