Francis Adams Cherry (5 September 1908–15 July 1965) was the Democratic Governor of Arkansas from 1953 to 1955.
Francis Adams Cherry was born in Fort Worth, Texas and grew up in Enid, Oklahoma, and graduated from high school there in 1926. He attended Oklahoma A&M University and graduated from the University of Arkansas in 1936.
He moved to Jonesboro, Arkansas and was elected chancellor and probate judge of the 12th District. At the outbreak of World War II Cherry applied and received a commission in the United States Navy. Cherry served two years in the Navy during the war.
Cherry was elected Governor of Arkansas in 1952. His administration was responsible for establishing the Department of Finance and Administration and was involved in encouraging industrial development of the state. He ran for a second term but was defeated by Orval Faubus.
Cherry is buried at the Oaklawn Cemetery in Jonesboro, Arkansas.
Last updated: 05-15-2005 05:56:29
