Philip Cherry

Philip R. Cherry, 84, of Strasburg, PA, entered eternal rest on Thursday, May 21, 2026. Phil was a devoted servant of Christ and an active pillar of Harvest Presbyterian Church, serving as a small group Bible study host and greeter.

Phil graduated from Bob Jones University and Dallas Theological Seminary. He married his high school sweetheart, Janet Roub on August 14, 1965 and began a career as pastor. Phil was a beloved spiritual leader in Altoona, PA, Greenfield Center, NY, Avoca, NY, Millinocket, ME, Media, PA, and Downingtown, PA. Later in his career, he served as a chaplain in the Chester County and West Chester University hospice programs, ministering to those facing the end of life along with their families. Phil was a gifted student and teacher of God’s Word, and he used this gift in diverse settings, including undergraduate-level Bible teaching for busy professionals around Philadelphia, Sunday School teaching in several churches, and Bible studies in his own home. He could often be found pouring over Scripture, handwriting a sermon or lesson plan. Phil and Janet raised three sons, Dana, Kirk, and Ian. He enjoyed traveling to visit family and watching his six grandchildren as they grew and developed their own interests and hobbies.

In his spare time, Phil was an avid gardener, filling his yard and deck with beautiful flowers where he could sit and enjoy a cup of coffee while admiring his handiwork. A favorite destination was Longwood Gardens where he could immerse himself in God’s beautiful creation and enjoy the endless color of flowers, trees, and fountains displayed there. A life-long lover of music, classical and worship songs often filled his home. Phil also enjoyed calligraphy and took great pleasure in creating cards and handwritten Bible passages to share with family and friends.

Phil is survived by his three beloved sons and their families: Dana Cherry, wife Debbie, and children Danielle and David; Kirk Cherry, wife Bonnie, and children Caleb and Caedmon; and Ian Cherry, wife Heather, and children Addison and Cora.

A joint memorial service will be held for Phil and his wife Janet on Saturday, August 8, 2026 at 2 PM at Harvest Presbyterian Church in Lancaster, PA. For those not able to attend in person, the service will streamed via YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@harvestsermons3228/streams

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to any of these organizations Phil deeply cared for.

Harvest Presbyterian Church (please state ‘memorial gift’ in the memo line)

517 Beaver Valley Pike

Lancaster, PA 17692

Dallas Theological Seminary at https://secure.dts.edu/donate/

Greater Europe Mission at https://gemission.org/give/10100/