 | Walter and Kathryn Cherry
Kathryn Cherry had always proudly exclaimed that, “I was carried into OKC 1st Church as a baby!” And, indeed she was. In January 1913, H.L. and Hattie Short brought the youngest of their three girls into Oklahoma City First Church of the Nazarene for the first time, a place where she would make her home for over 92 years.
Walt and Kathryn Cherry were married in August 1935. They met at a church function while attending the University of Oklahoma. In an interview many years later, Kathryn would say, “Our relationship began at the church and it is still going on there.” Walter and Kathryn complimented one another very well-Walt was contemplative and quiet, Kathryn was outgoing and candid.
Walt was known locally and within this church - taught a Sunday School class, was a leader of a very successful scout troop, and was known for his many restaurants, “Cherries for Burgers”. He served on the church board a number of years and was the driving force of the formation of the OKC 1st Nazarene Foundation. Walt’s wisdom, strength, and quiet confidence held the church together through tough times. Kathryn impacted the junior high program by forming the “Live Wire” girls, young women who followed her every move. She also served as the camp director of our very own church summer camp for over 20 years. Wherever she was, it seemed that her camp whistle could have been in tow, as she could shape up any crowd. Kathryn served wherever she was needed.
In their later years, the Cherry’s served our church through their prayers and continued financial giving. Their selflessness was evident to all. Walter passed away on Columbus Day of 2002, and we just recently lost Kathryn on Columbus Day of 2005. OKC 1st Church will always esteem the Cherry’s, holding them up as exemplars for their remarkable faithfulness.
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