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Vernon Cherry Obituary
It is the singing, more than anything else, that keeps Vernon Cherry so vivid in their minds. A Brooklyn firefighter who moonlighted as a wedding singer, Mr. Cherry, 49, sang it all and he sang it everywhere: Barry White in the firehouse, Frank Sinatra at weddings, the national anthem at Fire Department promotion ceremonies.
"He would just sing," said Raymond Thomas, a firefighter who worked with him for 11 years at Ladder Company 118 in Brooklyn Heights. "He would be walking up the stairs, in the locker room, taking a shower. He had such a beautiful voice. I used to ask him: 'Sing me a song, Vernon. Vernon, sing 'Always and Forever.' He wouldn't do the whole song, just short bits and pieces."
Mr. Cherry, a 28-year veteran of the Fire Department, was known at Ladder 118 as "Vernon Mo," because he called everybody else "Mo." And there was his lasagna, "Lasagna Mo."
"He put mushrooms in it," Mr. Thomas said. "He used every pot in the firehouse. We tried to discourage him from cooking. I mean we loved it, but he had to use every pot in the house."
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Lynette Rambo
September 12, 2024
Remembering you today, Vernon, and saying a prayer for your family. ❤❤❤
Tim Chalker
September 11, 2024
Last year when at a local cemetery looking for info on a family member, I was in there office and found you. This beautiful picture was hanging on their wall, with a picture of you and your fellow firefighters. I started to cry, you will never be forgotten, nor will those who died alongside of you that day.
Vernon Cherry 3rd row down 4th from the end.
Karen Fahlgren & Tim Chalker
Itasca, Il.
2001 High school portrait
Lucas Rappa
December 8, 2023
I drew this portrait of him my freshman year of high school 2001. It was an art project that we were assigned to choose in memory a hero that died on 911. I chose him. I've kept this copy and it has been hanging every place I've ever lived. I get to see his face every day and he is a part of me. We never met but I feel like I've known him my entire life. I truly wish I could have met this hero of a man. He is my hero.
Remembering my brother Vernon Paul Cherry 22 later. Thanks to all who still keep Vernon in hearts
James Cherry
September 14, 2023
Remembering my brother Vernon Paul Cherry
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September 13, 2023
Vernon Paul Cherry may you rest in eternal peace. Here on earth your bravery and sacrifice is not forgotten even 22 years later they say your name and we remember the day heaven gained a sky full of angels.
Karen Fahlgren
September 11, 2023
22 years ago, I received a letter with your name. Telling me to remember you and what you had done. We will never forget you.
Karen Fahlgren & Tim Chalker
Lynette Rambo
September 11, 2023
Remembering Vernon today. I looked back through my photos from when we visited NYC in 2015 and I see Vernon’s name on the wall in the WTC memorial museum. My love and prayers today.
Yvette and Corey Rees
September 11, 2023
My Husband Corey Rees From NewZealand completed a FireFighters Memorial Climb carrying the name Vernon Paul Cherry. Vernon and his Memory is now a part of our Fire Family and we will always Remember him. To Vernon´s Family we send our Love. Xx
The Cherry Family
James Cherry
September 12, 2022
As the years have passed since you left us on September 11, 2001. Your mother, your wife, your son and four of your brothers are with you now. The rest of your family keeps your memory alive. We try to get together for happy occasions. We love you and the rest of family, give them all hugs from your big brother. Rest in eternal peace.
Love your big brother
Jimmy
Karen Fahlgren Tim Chalker
September 11, 2022
Time fly's by, years move on. We will never forget you. You will always be a part of us. We will keep you alive in our heart & tell others your story and what you gave for this county. Forever remembering you Karen & Tim
Lynette Rambo
September 11, 2022
Thinking of and praying for you and your family today, Vernon. God bless you all.
Steven Lengyel
September 10, 2022
My father Captain Thomas F Lengyel Ret. (RIP) worked with Vernon and loved to hear him sing.
Lynette Rambo
September 6, 2021
Remembering you today, Vernon, and praying for your family as we approach the 20th anniversary of 9/11.
Karen Chalker
September 6, 2021
Dear Vernon
Today I sent a letter to the St. Peter Apostle Church. To thank them. Twenty years ago they sent me your name & asked I that I remember you. Which I now do every year & though out the year. I think of your family & friends and now they must miss you. I will continue to remember you & all who lost their lives that day & days that followed.
Sincerely Karen, Itasca, IL.
Cindy Roe
September 4, 2021
Remembering Vernon on the 20th anniversary of 9/11...
February 5, 2021
Rest in peace!!
We will never forget u!
Del Newberry
October 8, 2020
I'm sure Vernon is singing in heaven! Thank you Vernon for your service to your city, to your country. I pray for special blessings on his family today. Much love from Texas
Kathleen T
September 11, 2020
I learned of Vernon today and am lucky to have heard his story. His heroism will live on forever. I hope all who miss him take some comfort in that. Love and peace to his family.
Susan Greenbaum
September 11, 2020
I learned about Firefighter Cherry through his work with Songs Of Love. I wear a memorial bracelet with his name on it. Each year I try and bring breakfast to my local fire department and state police. In his name. He will not be forgotten.
Karen Fahlgren
September 11, 2020
I hope your family knows, thou I did know you, I will never forget you. And will always reminds other so you will live forever in our hearts & memory. Karen Itasca, IL.
August 21, 2020
He was an exceptional person!!
He put a smile on everyone's face at all times!
His voice was fabulous as well!!
Rest in peace!!
James Cherry
September 13, 2019
I would like to thank all who come here year after year on the anniversary of Vernon's death and post kind and encouraging words. It means a lot to our family. My god continue to bless you and your family.
Lynette Rambo
September 11, 2019
We are remembering 9/11 in our community with this play, 110 Stories. I look forward to the day when we meet in Heaven, Vernon, and I can hear your story and hug your neck. ❤ https://www.whsv.com/content/news/1on1--A-play-about-911-titled-110-Stories-559988681.html
Karen
September 10, 2019
When the sun comes up today, I will put my sign out for the 17th year, at the end of my driveway. It is there because I will always remember you. And to remind all these who drive past to remember you & all the other who we lost because of 9/11/2001. I will never forget. Karen. Itasca, IL.
Lynette Rambo
September 7, 2019
Hi, Vernon. My husband, Larry, is in a local theater production this week that commemorates and honors 9-11 victims and heroes - especially some of the firefighters from that day. Its called 110 Stories. One of the firefighters from New Jersey might evening be attending it! Ill be seeing the play for the first time this Thursday. And, you will be first in my mind - along with your and my Lord Jesus Christ. God bless, keep, and continue to lift up and comfort your family.
A.L.
September 6, 2019
In treasured memory of a 9/11 first responder.
The Kindred Family
April 30, 2019
Sending our continued heartfelt condolences to your family. There isn't anything that can remove the deep pain of losing someone dear to us. May God always give the help needed to cope. Vernon touched many many lives, is still missed and will always be remembered with fondness.
JAMES CHERRY
September 12, 2018
Thank you Lynette Rambo for your beautiful words about Vernon, I am so glad that you continue to keep Vernon in heart through out the years no matter where you are. May the the Lord continue to bless you.
JAMES CHERRY
September 12, 2018
Thank you Yolanda Harris for your beautiful words about Vernon, I am so glad that you continue to keep Vernon in heart through out the years. May the the Lord continue to bless you and your family.
Lynette Rambo
September 12, 2018
Hi, Vernon,
I thought of you and your family yesterday (and today). Your light continues to shine in a dark world. I pray the day comes soon when ... We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. ... then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory.
Thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.
May God bless you and your family continually.
Lynette Rambo
Yolanda Harris
September 11, 2018
Hello Vernon Paul Cherry,
Thank you, graciously, for the extreme BRAVERY and COURAGE that you embodied from day to day and on the fateful day of September 11, 2001. You and your COLLEAGUES ( ALL NEW YORK's BRAVEST), without hesitance, diligently, assisted hundreds of people, who were trapped inside the WTC buildings, without hesitance and enabled them to safety; so that they may return home to their loved ones. Incredibly, MIRACULOUS and astoundingly, C-O-U-R-A-G-E-O-U-S!
Vernon Paul Cherry. Let your Heavenly Star forever continue to shine, brightly, amongst the Heavens, as we all continuously, listen for the billowing whispers of your "Golden Melodic Voice" cascading from the dwellings of God's Heavenly place up above. Keep on singing, Vernon Paul Cherry and may your angelic watch FOREVER remain over your entire wonderful family, relatives, friends and acquaintances.
Many blessings to everyone on their life's journey.
with Love Yolanda Harris
Lynette Rambo
September 13, 2017
Ms. Harris, your words each year are beautiful and inspiring. In this way, Vernon Cherry continues to serve and uplift people and do God's work.
This year on 9-11, I was in Serbia, but I still remembered you, Vernon. No matter where people are, you are never forgotten.
God bless you, your family, and Yolanda Harris.
James Cherry
September 12, 2017
Thank you Yolanda Harris for your beautiful words about Vernon, I am so glad that you continue to keep Vernon in heart through out the years. May the the Lord continue to bless you.
Sincerely,
Jim Cherry
Yolanda Harris
September 11, 2017
Hello Vernon Paul Cherry,
You and Your family are always in my prayers.
May "The Almighty GOD" continue to Bless You, Your Family and Loved Ones, Always.
Let your "Shining Bright Light" continue to forever shine upon us all. May we always hear your melodic voice echoing from heaven.
May your soul now be at peace with God.
Thank you, God for creating Vernon Paul Cherry and allowing us all to know of him.
For he is one of many courageous men, who were called upon to serve his fellow man and taken from us much to soon.
We Love ya' Vernon Paul Cherry.
Forever Remain strong Cherry Family, Relatives and Friends.
My son Jack is in the center, white shirt w/ red suspenders.
September 12, 2016
Good afternoon,
My son Jack Turner in a student at Eastern Kentucky University (EKU) studying Fire Protection Administration. On 9/11/2016 he was honored to climb 110 floors (in full gear) in memory of Vernon Cherry of Ladder 118. While he was only three years old on 9/11/2001, the event had a profound impact on his life and his decision to become a professional firefighter.
If you have the opportunity, please pass along to Mr. Cherry's family that he is not forgotten and his memory was carried up 110 floors by a young man who aspires to serve his community in a way that would make Mr. Cherry proud.
Best,
Carolyn Turner
James Cherry
September 12, 2016
Thank you Yolanda Harris for your beautiful words about Vernon, I am so glad that you continue to keep Vernon in heart through out the years. May the the Lord continue to bless you.
Sincerely,
Jim Cherry
Yolanda Harris
September 11, 2016
Hello Vernon Paul Cherry,
As every new day embarks upon each of us, by the very Grace of Almighty GOD, we heed his words of "Wisdom". May each individual be Blessed with the incredible courage that you embodied, Vernon Paul Cherry, throughout your life. Let each of us carry the torch of light that you forever continue to shine, brightly, upon us,everyday of our life. Thank you for continuing to ensure the safety and life of us ALL and awakening that relentless undying 'SPIRIT' that we each possess to fulfill the good deeds that provides GOD'S BOUNTIFUL BLESSINGS.
Vernon Paul Cherry you are and will continue to remain a BLESSING to your wonderful loving dear family, as well, as to each of us from THE ALMIGHTY GOD OUR FATHER IN HEAVEN.
Indeed, keep singing your 'melodic tunes', Vernon Paul Cherry, we will always hear that melodious sound resonate, within our HEARTS.
We miss you and may your spirit continue to radiate, brightly, and watch over your Family, Friends and acquaintances, always and forever.
with love,
Yolanda Harris
I drew a heart above your name in the mist. It was raining.
Lynette Rambo
September 13, 2015
I was very moved at seeing your name on the 911 Memorial wall, Vernon.
Lynette Rambo
September 13, 2015
Lynette Rambo
September 13, 2015
Hi, Vernon. I posted a tribute to you on my Facebook page on 9-11 this year. It included pictures of your name on the memorial wall where the twin towers used to stand. My husband and I went to NYC for the first time this summer and went to the 911 Memorial. The first thing we did was look for your name. I won't ever forget.
James Cherry
September 13, 2015
Ms.Yolanda Harris I just wanted to say thank you for your kind words about my brother Vernon that you send every year since 9/11. It means so much to me that you still keep Vernon in your heart.
Jim Cherry
Jamie Fuller
September 12, 2015
Always remember, Never forget. God bless you Mr. Cherry
Yolanda Harris
September 11, 2015
Hello Vernon Paul Cherry,
The memory of your courageous efforts linger still,in my mind. It is with great honor that we each were, truly, blessed to have known you and to have experienced great happiness and heartfelt moments, while listening to your Golden Melodic Voice that permeated each of our "Hearts with "Soul" when in your company. Your presence was electrifying and tremendously magnetic. Your energy will always remain constant and perpetual, just like a rainbow, majestically, surrounds all things and beings fortunate to be touched by "The Almighty God our Father." May your Family, Friends and acquaintances always be touched by the presence of that great rainbow in the sky, where you now dwell, forever and in our hearts, Vernon Paul Cherry.
Thank you for your service and for all your selfless BRAVE undertakings. May God forever maintain his guidance over your family.
With Love,
Yolanda Harris
John Szczech
October 28, 2014
ALWAYS REMEMBER , NEVER FORGET !!!!!
Yolanda Harris
September 11, 2014
Hello Vernon Paul Cherry,
The man with the "Golden Voice", You and your family are always in my thoughts. As each day transitions into new, I thank God for granting each of us the extraordinary opportunity to know of your precious existence. Your efforts were exceptional, here on earth and very much appreciated and now, your, heavenly, wings are surrounding each of our hearts with the abundance of love and great courage that you embodied. To a highly respectable man, a great son, a kind loving father and a dutiful comrade, who is, simply, one of a kind. what a rare find and a Gem of a fellow. Keep on singing, Vernon. We will always hear your melodic tunes. May God continue to Bless your family and within each of your family members, Let Peace dwell in their hearts. Let this be granted, Dear Lord God Almighty.
With Love Always
YOLANDA HARRIS
Karen
September 11, 2014
I will always honor your memory.
Lynette Rambo
September 11, 2014
Hi, Vernon. Thinking of you today and saying a prayer for your family and friends. Thank you for the ultimate sacrifice you made in service of others.
Until the day we meet face-to-face ...
Jada Daniel
April 10, 2014
Hey, grandpa1 It's your grand daughter (not Octavia) Jada. You never met me because I was in my mommy's belly at the time. I haven't met you either but i miss you. Just thinking about you everyday. It's hard but i make it through. Grandma's doing ok. Mommy, Daddy, Fabian, Devin and Octavia is okay. We all miss you...
Lynette Rambo
September 13, 2013
Lighting a candle in memory and honor of Vernon Paul Cherry.
Lynette Rambo
September 13, 2013
I know this message is a couple days overdue, Vernon, but I wanted you and your family to know that I was thinking about you. One day we will meet in Heaven and I can't wait to give you a big, big hug! To your family - my prayers are with you.
Yolanda Harris
September 11, 2013
Hello Paul Vernon Cherry,
What a mighty young, brave, and courageous man are you. We thank God Almighty for letting each of us know of your physical existence here on earth and to now be touched by your, heavenly, presence from the melodic tunes that resonate from the mighty clouds up above. How fortunate are we to have known you and to still have your perpetual watch remain over us all. Thank you, Mr. Cherry.
We love you, always. God Bless you, the entire Cherry Family, and all the many fortunate countless individuals that you, magically, touched in HEART and SPIRIT, throughout this journey entitled "LIFE". Your memory will FOREVER remain EVERLASTING.
August 1, 2013
i'd like to share a memory one day a long time ago we passed each other in the parking lot between our buildings by 50th street and bway vernon had the biggest smile on his face probably the happiest person i had ever seen and i asked him why he was so happy he replied that he had just been notified that he was accepted into the fire dept now i remember him at the tunnel to towers run where i stop and shake the hand of the fireman who holds onto his image on the manhattan side with a tear in my eye but with joy in my heart for a childhood friend who followed his dream vinny romano 31 69 49th st wdsd
Safe in His arms.
Lynette Rambo
September 12, 2012
Special thoughts and prayers for you and your family, Vernon. I wanted to share a picture an artist friend of mine drew earlier this year when our beloved kitty, Heather, passed away. She drew her in the arms of Jesus, and it gives me so much comfort every time I see this picture. Looking forward to meeting you in Heaven, my brother. :- )
Yolanda Harris
September 11, 2012
Hello Vernon Paul Cherry,
It's me, Yolanda, saying "Hello" again. I just wanted to let you and your lovely family know that you are never far from my thoughts and prayers. I am so glad that we all still feel your Spiritual presence each and every day. We love you and miss you,always. May God continue to bless you and your entire family with your exceptional strength of character. Let your continued watch over us all, forever remain upon us. Thank you for all the wonders that you continue to bestow upon us. You are one of a kind. Fondly, Yolanda Harris
Lynette Rambo
September 16, 2011
Vernon, I didn't know you, but I honored you on the 10th anniversary of 9-11 by posting a tribute to you on my Facebook page. It sounds like you were a wonderful, loved gentleman and I wish I could have heard you sing.
Linda
September 11, 2011
When I heard you perished in the World Trade Center it was too much to handle. You are missed and left us too soon. If I listen closely I can hear you singing with the Angels. R.I.P. Vernon.
Calvin Thomas
September 3, 2011
I never knew you Mr. Cherry, but I sure would have liked to. All I read about you is how caring and generous you were. Always helping others, volunteering, being a role model, and much more. You are an American hero and your name will live on forever. Rest well hero.
Vernon's Memorial in Woodside where he grew up
Jim Cherry
August 27, 2011
Marla
August 6, 2011
To Vernon's family,
As the 10 year Anniversary approaches I wanted to let you know we have not forgotten the sacrifce your brother, son, uncle, father gave on that day, I will always remember,God Bless you.
May he be in God's care for eternity.
Jim Cherry
May 2, 2011
Thinking of you today more than normal, as 911 has been on the news all day. The family still misses you. God Bless You.
May 1, 2011
god bless you sweetheart
Fabian Daniel
March 24, 2011
I havent been on here in a long time. I Just wanted to let you know that you are still in my thoughts almost every day. Love you and miss you pops.
Vernon visiting with the seniors at the Woodside Senior's Center
August 30, 2010
Marylou Melendez
September 11, 2009
Just wanted to write because I was thinking of you on this September day. I think of you and the family everyday on my journey to work in the moring. I have to take the Path at the World Trade Center. I hope everyone is doing well and wanted to let the Cherry family know you are always in my heart and mind. Always wishing Joanne, Selena, Darien, and Ryan the best.
Love you guys, Marylou Melendez
Fabian Daniel
August 25, 2009
Hey, Everyone
I just wanted to say thanks for everything people did in honor of my grandfather Vernon P. Cherry also known to his three grand children as "Paw Paw". We miss him everyday and we all hope to meet him in heaven when that day comes. Again thank you for all of you condolences.
His Grandson,
Fabian Daniel
Vernon Singing For Crystal
June 29, 2009
Cindy Cherry
June 9, 2009
We still miss you Vernon but we feel your present and power in the miracles of life
Your Sister
Hey Vern I finally finished school that was for you.
Doug Abraham
January 11, 2009
You are in our thoughts and prayers.
francesca velez
September 16, 2008
In remembrance always 4 ever missed
A Thankful American
September 13, 2008
In memory, with honor and respect. God bless you and your family! We will NEVER forget
Yolanda Harris
September 11, 2008
Hello Vernon Paul Cherry, family, friends and acquaintances, we are all connected because of this wonderful man that God created, named Vernon Paul Cherry. I think about you everyday and praise the Lord for your existence in our lives, here, now and always. The courage that you possess, greatly encourages me to carry on my task and human responsibilities, that I know are asked of me on a daily basis, not only by my peers, but, from God almighty. Grant it, there are days that I need guidance and direction and I call upon my spiritual angels and saints to help me navigate my journey here on earth, and I feel so comforted to know that you are one of my spiritual angels. You will always remain forever in our hearts, mind and thoughts. You are charismatically charming, incredibly courageous, impeccably vocal, especially, that GOLDEN VOICE AND UNIQUE SOUND,and more importantly, a fine gentleman. WE LOVE YOU Vernon Paul Cherry. May your diligent watch over your loving family and each of us remain forever, just as loving thoughts of you forever linger in our memories. God Bless You and Let Peace Be With Each Of Us In Heart, Mind and Body.
Mary O'Gorman
August 30, 2008
We stopped and said a prayer at Vernon's grave in Green Wood Cemetery
Memorial Plaque at the NFFF Memorial
August 2, 2008
Vernon's family at the Natinal Fallen Firerfighters Memorial
August 2, 2008
Vernon at one of many FDNY Ceremonies before 9-11
June 30, 2008
samantha perez
May 2, 2008
hi everyone!!!!!!! im samantha . crystals little sister. on septeber 11th , me and my family were so scared. and when i heard what happened to vernon , back then i didnt understand, but now i understand perfectly. vernon was very important to alot of people, and those many people miss him . eventhough i only met him once and i didnt understand .vernon we miss you very much!!! r.i.p !!!!!!
RONALD CHERRY
September 27, 2007
Ronnie cherry from 50-05 Broadway Woodside Ny 11377 Vernons' Brother
Howard H
September 18, 2007
I just want to say I grew up in the projects with him and his family in Coney Island Houses, I lived on the 8th with him and knew when he was home I can here him singing as soon as he exited the elevators, and it was the same when he would leave his apartment just singing and whistling. I remember when his son Ryan was born how proud he was I know he will be missed by his family as well as me. My deepest sympathy goes out to his family and my prayers are with you.
Kristine
October 19, 2006
As I cross-stitched your name on the memorial that I am doing for all of the victims, I prayed for you and your family. Please know that your death was not in vain. We will always remember. God Bless.
P Tabbernor
September 9, 2006
In remembrance....
Yolanda Harris
August 16, 2006
May God bless you Paul Vernon Cherry and your family and friends and acqaintances. You are an incredibly special person then and now as you will always be. I just hope I can possess the power,stength of character, courage and the "ABILITY TO DO AND ACT" when called upon by the ALMIGHTY BEING WHO GOVERNS EACH BEINGS EXISTENCE ON EARTH for any task/reason. You live forever in my thoughts and memories. THANKYOU.
Jill Morales-Ratner
December 3, 2005
To the family of Vernon Cherry-
Vernon is the only person I "knew" who lost his life in 9/11. My cousin, Mike Edwards worked with Vernon at 118. Mike's wife Ilene is my cousin and she always spoke of him with such warmth and love. I know Mike was devastated when he lost his "brothers" at 118. My brother, Stu Ratner, is also a firefighter-a chief of a small town here in California. I can't even imagine what you went through, but I know you are so proud of your son, husband, brother and father. I am so very proud of my brother and cousin. Know that your Vernon lives on in the heart and soul of every firefighter! I send my hugs and love to you!
Jill Morales-Ratner
James Johnson
September 11, 2005
God Bless You...
Cynthia
May 14, 2004
To the Cherry family:
I am honored to be a recipient of a braclet with Vernons name. I have worn it everyday. Although I had never met Mr. Cherry, I can see from the many tributes and messages that he was a wonderful man. I would love to hear from any family member or friends. God Bless you all.
Emmett Hyde
September 11, 2003
The Cherry Family,
I just wanted all of you to know even though I have not seen any of you since my family moved from the projects to Florida in 1968, I was saddend to learn to Vernons death. I know words alone are not enough to say, so I will add my prayers for you.
When I learned that Vernon was one of the fireman to give his life for a fellow man, I cried, and I cried again today as I prayed for him. May God Bless you all.
Emmett Hyde
We used to live in 6c in the projects at 50-05 B'way
Buddy Cherry
September 11, 2003
Thanks for your sympathy and love for my brother
We all miss him very much. (Five of us siblings, He had 4 brothers and 1 sister)
I believe Ill see Vernon in heaven because he gave his life to save others, like Jesus did. I personally have this hope I will see Vernon again, went Jesus returns in the clouds to take His people "Home" (Heaven). I'll see him only if I remain faithful to God.
Thanks again for your love.
Oldest brother, Buddy
francesca velez
September 11, 2003
dear ryan and family.
i grow up with you a cross the way. i new you as a kids growing up . i can recall me going to your house and all way talking to your dad even when he go to joe v or the bagle store a cross from my house he was a great man and today marks 3 years and i couldnt help but think of your family . i saw your dads picture as they call out his name i was so sad for you but all i can say is he is a true hero of 9-11
Barney Agate
September 11, 2003
Dear Cherry Family,
I cannot fathom the loss of a hero such as Vernon, nor any other of the valiant thousands lost 9/11/01.
I knew him from his other life, that of a professional singer. My family and I first saw him with Starfire many years ago. We were so impressed with his talent, and Phyllis and Jack, that we asked them to entertain at the B'nai Mitzvah's of my children Felicia and Todd. What joy he brought to so many people. His smile was so infectious, he got everyone up to dance. I can still hear that song whose name escapes me, but it was an island song that makes me think of him everytime I hear it. My wife and I saw Vernon the week before, at the wedding of a friend's daughter in Teaneck on Labor Day. As we left, I told him he was the "Greatest" and I didn't even know how really great he was at that time. He gave endless joy, and was a true hero. May God help you every day on his behalf.
Barney Agate
cindy cherry
May 12, 2003
I want to thank each and every heart for your kind and beautiful words of comfort and memory. We deeply miss Vernon but his Love is all around us and he never ceases to be embraced as we are forever in his. Vernon loved whole heartedly and unconditionally. I'm just waiting to hear him whistling on is way home.
Renée Clay
October 31, 2002
Dear Mrs. Cherry and Family,
Ditto on everything Caroline Cavanaugh said about Vernon wanting you to know that he is watching over you. I think he wants you to know that he is proud of you, too. He knows, I am sure, how hard this has been for you all and I feel like he wants you to know that he is very proud.
I saw your children, Mrs. Cherry, on a special about Vernon's firehouse recently. I already knew about Vernon (and heard his song for Crystal Ann Perez -- what a voice!) and felt his love and pride in all of you. When I saw and heard your children, the feeling made even more sense.
It must be difficult to lose such and loving and gentle man to violence and not be angry and vengeful towards his attackers. That says a lot about the kind of parents you are.
Please feel free to e-mail me if you'd like: [email protected]
I think of you often. Met an FDNY surgeon here recently who knew Vernon.
Much love and many prayers.
caroline cavanaugh
September 11, 2002
Dear Cherry Family:
I want to give you my deepest sympathies and tell you how sorry I am for your loss. I am junior at St Agnes Academy in Houston and I will be wearing the wrist brand with Vernon's name on it during the whole month of September. I want you to know I will pray for him everyday and I consider it an honor to wear his name on my wrist band. I'm sure he was very brave and I think of him as a hero for risking his life to save others. I know you must miss him so much, but I'm sure he would want you to know that he is watching over you everyday and he misses you too. I hope that this entry will make your day a little bit better on this day of rememberance. I just want you to know, all of America is praying for you and your family as well as all the people who died on 9/11.
Corey Weinstein
September 11, 2002
To Ryan and the Cherry Family,
I was a friend of Ryan's in our teen years and met Mr. Cherry many times. He was an extremely funny and sweet man. When I saw his face on TV my heart broke for Ryan. You should be very proud of your father and my deepest sympathies go out to you & your family.
God Bless you!!
Evelyn Ponce
September 11, 2002
Our deepest condolences. It's been a year and it still feels like yesterday. I really didn't know you personally but I remember your brother Dickie always talking about you. I know your mom Mrs. Cherry, your brother Dickie and your sister Cindy. Cindy and I went to school together. I can't imagine the full impact of knowing you were one of the victims but I did feel the fear when I almost lost my sister. May you rest in peace and you will never be forgotten.
John Sorrentino
June 23, 2002
6/22/02 - Today was Vernons funeral service.And for a man who swore that he was related to Elvis, it was a sendoff fit for a king. A lot of love and hard work went into making it a memorable occasion,our way of thanking Vernon for enriching our lives.
Vernon always said that "tomorrow is promised to no one". And as Mayor Bloomberg stated, the reason we have a tomorrow is because of the sacrifice made by Vernon and so many others on 9/11.
Vernon, thank you for a lifetime of memories. Thank you for helping me to realize how beautiful life can be.It is an honor to call you my friend.
Brothers forever.
francesca velez
May 31, 2002
REMEMBER ME
To the living, I am gone
To the sorrowful, I will never return
To the angry, I was cheated
But, to the happy, I am at peace
And to the faithful, I have never left
I can not speak, but I can listen
I can not be seen, but I can be heard
So as you stand upon the shore
Gazing at the beautiful sea, remember me
As you look in awe at a mighty forest
And its grand majesty, remember me
Remember me in your hearts,
In your thoughts, and the memories of the
Times we loved, the times we cried, the
Battle I fought and the times we laughed
For if you always think of me, I will
Have never gone.
till this day i was thinking of you and your family.
Connie
May 25, 2002
I will always remember your winning smile and cheerful personality. You were one of the best.
Paul Geoghegan
May 12, 2002
To JoAnne and the Cherry family,
I was assigned to Ladder 118 from 1994 to 1996, and I had the pleasure of working with Vernon almost every shift. And I know that right now, he is teaching the angels how to sing. May God Bless you and keep you.
Angie Campbell
April 23, 2002
**********God Bless You**********
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How to support Vernon's loved ones
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These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
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