Wilton Cherry

Mr. Wilton Edward Cherry, age 80, of Dover, TN, passed away on Sunday, October 18, 2026, at Alive Hospice in Nashville, TN, with his loving and devoted wife by his side. He was born on February 2, 1946, to the late William and Bessie Fox Cherry.

Wilton grew up in a quiet little neighborhood in the Land Between the Lakes (LBL) area, where he began a life defined by humility, kindness, and a willingness to help others whenever a need arose. After marrying his first wife at the age of 19, he continued to give generously of himself to his neighbors, his community, and the county he proudly called home.

Wilton was a devoted family man, a hardworking provider, and a man of strong character. He dedicated 43 years of service to the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), working in the electrical department and advancing to the position of foreman. Throughout his career, he served not only as a leader but also as a mentor to the many young men who worked alongside him, sharing his knowledge, experience, and wisdom.

Wilton loved the Lord and was a faithful servant of the Church of Christ. His faith was an important part of his life, and he willingly served his church in many ways, from faithfully attending services and assisting with Sunday school classes to lending a helping hand with church activities. His commitment to his faith was reflected in the way he lived and cared for others.

Before his retired, Wilton turned a vision into reality, a true "Field of Dreams." With a dream of creating a place for young athletes and families to gather, he helped transform a cornfield just outside Dover into a thriving ballpark featuring three to four baseball and softball diamonds. He devoted much of his time and energy to the Stewart County Ball Park, which became a significant part of his life. As a longtime member of the Athletic Association, he took great pride in helping develop the park into what it is today. In 1994 Wilton was names the Stewart County Organization For Recreational Enjoyment (S.C.O.R.E.) Man Of The Year for his tireless devotion, commitment and dedication to the youth of Stewart County. His perseverance and hard work helped create a place where generations of young people and families could gather, play, and make lasting memories.

Above all, Wilton loved his wife and children with all his heart. He treasured the time he spent with his family and the memories they made together, memories that will continue to bring comfort and joy to those who loved him. His life was a testament to the importance of faith, family, hard work, and service to others.

Wilton leaves behind a lasting legacy of love, generosity, and devotion to the Lord, his family, his community, his county, and his country. Though he will be deeply missed, the example he set and the lives he touched will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his first wife, Barbara Cherry; son, Shawn Cherry; brother, Donnie Cherry; sister, Annie Scaff; and brother-in-law, Andy Scalf.

He is survived by his loving wife of 28 years, Mary Ann Cherry; sons, Anthony Cherry (Leann) and Brodie Kennedy; daughter, Jessica Kennedy; sister, Murl Scalf; grandchildren, Ashley and Trenton Cherry, James and Bailey Kennedy, Tea' and Ethan Kennedy, Ellie and Zora Griffith; great grandchildren, Kade and Kollin Foss, Andrew, Mathew, and Juniper Cherry, Carson and Guidan Kennedy.

A visitation and funeral service will be held at Anglin Funeral Home on Saturday, October 24, 2026. Visitation beginning at 11:00 am with funeral service to follow at 1:00 pm with Bro. Bobby Odell officiating. Burial will follow at Stewart County Memorial Gardens. Family and friends will serve as pallbearers.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Anglin Funeral Home in Dover, Tennessee. Online condolences and tributes may be made at www.anglinfuneralhome.com