Ida Emma Donaldson-Cherry

Ida Cherry, a cherished daughter, devoted wife, and beloved matriarch, was born on December 13, 1936, in Washington, North Carolina, to Henrietta and Marshall Donaldson. She peacefully departed this life on March 22, 2026, in Suffolk, Virginia, leaving behind a legacy of faith, dedication, and love.

Throughout her life, Ida exemplified unwavering commitment both in her vocation and within her family. She devoted many years to serving at Maryview Hospital in Portsmouth, Virginia, before embracing the entrepreneurial spirit by establishing her own business. A woman of deep faith, Ida accepted Christ early in life and remained steadfastly connected to her church community, faithfully attending The Way of the Cross since 1973.

On June 8, 1973, Ida united in marriage with Mr. Leno Cherry in Norfolk, Virginia. Together, they nurtured a family bound by love and devotion. Ida’s warm spirit and generous heart were the foundation of her enduring relationships.

Ida’s memory will be lovingly treasured by her son, Bobby Boone, and his wife, Joyce; her three devoted granddaughters, Nicole Harvey, Lashanda Johnson (Gerald), and Marquite Harvey; and her grandsons, Sean Brown (Brittany), Quadre Boone, Bobby Boone, Jr., Keshawn Riddick, and Tay Lassiter. She was also a proud great-grandmother to sixteen precious great-grandchildren. Her family circle extends to include her special brother-in-law, Roosevelt Cherry of Brooklyn, New York; two devoted nieces, Aletha Rodgers Ashby and Margaret Williams; devoted caregivers Betsy Cuffe and Jacqueline Rodgers; as well as her bonus son, John Chris Gomes, and bonus daughters, Cynthia Cherry and Loretta Walker. Ida’s warmth touched a wide family circle beyond these, encompassing numerous nephews, nieces, and cherished friends.

A viewing will be held 12-6 p.m. Sunday, March 29, 2026 at Crocker Funeral Home. A celebration of Ida Cherry’s remarkable life will be held at noon on Monday, March 30, 2026, at Oak Grove Baptist Church, where loved ones and friends will gather to honor her memory. She will be laid to rest with dignity at Holly Lawn Cemetery. The Crocker Funeral Home, Inc. has been entrusted with arrangements, offering compassionate and heartfelt care.