Cherry L. Turnage Robinson

Obituary For Cherry L. Turnage Robinson

With heavy hearts, we gather to reflect on the life of Cherry L. Robinson, who peacefully departed this world on July 27, 2025, at her residence. Born on April 20, 1956, to the union of Rosa Lee Harris Turnage and Charles A. Turnage Sr. in Youngstown, Ohio, Cherry was a true product of her community—an unwavering spirit who left a lasting impact on everyone she met.

Cherry grew up in Youngstown and stood proud as a warrior of South High School’s class of 1974. She pursued her love for numbers and people at Youngstown State University, focusing on business, accounting, and finance. Her career soared at LTV Steel, where she dedicated over three decades to the accounting department. But she wasn’t just an accountant; alongside her beloved sister Delores, she co-founded Family Affair Catering Services, where the aroma of their delicious creations filled the air, reflecting the warmth of their hearts. Together, they delighted the community with their delicious meals and warm hospitality.

Affectionately known as “Aunt Cherry Babe,” she was a beacon of creativity, warmth, and support. Everyone who crossed her path appreciated her genuine love and authentic touch as she shared her infectious energy everywhere she went. Her love for cooking, baking, shopping, and crafting brought joy to her family and friends. A devoted Cleveland Browns fan, Cherry enjoyed being part of The Holly Club and The Red Hatters. She was always immersed in spirited laughter while bringing light into any room.

Cherry’s faith was a cornerstone of her life. As a lifelong member of New Bethel Baptist Church, she wore many hats as a trustee and generously devoted countless hours to the youth & young adults, transportation, and Vacation Bible School ministries, nurturing faith in countless young hearts. Her special bond with her pastor, Rev. Kenneth L. Simon, reflected the strength of their friendship and shared commitment to their church community.

When the community came together, Cherry was always at the forefront, along with her family. She found joy in supporting community events hosted by her daughter such as the Easter Egg Hunts, Trunk of Treats, Harvest Parties, Christmas Shop with Cops and winter apparel giveaways.

Cherry leaves behind a beautiful legacy of love, embodied in her son, Sir Solomon Watkins of Youngstown, her granddaughters, Ashley Robinson of Sunnyvale, California, Kendra Allen of Cincinnati, Ohio, and Ashanti Allen of Youngstown. She also leaves cherished memories shared with her brothers, Gary (Charlette) Hudson of Dallas, Joel Bryant, and Elton Turnage of Youngstown, along with a son-in-love, Michael Allen, and sister-in-love, Sandra Turnage.

Her god-sister, Wanda Thomas, and her great-grand fur baby, Tesla, will also miss her dearly, as will a multitude of nieces, nephews, cousins, godchildren, and friends—all of whom will hold her memory close to their hearts.

Cherry is now reunited in spirit with her beloved daughter, Victoria Monique Allen; parents, Charles and Rosa Lee Turnage; sisters, Emma Jean Turnage and Mary Deloris Hall; brother, Charles A. Turnage Jr.; niece, Monique Hall; and dear friend & former roommate, Mrs. Lucille Seldon. As we remember Aunt Cherry Babe, let us celebrate her legacy of love, laughter, and strength. She may be gone from our sight, but she will forever remain in our hearts.

In honor of Cherry's remarkable life, the Robinson Family invites the community Cherry loved so dearly to join them for a 9:30 AM public viewing on Tuesday, August 5, 2025, at New Bethel Baptist Church, 1507 Hillman Street, Youngstown. The Christian Celebration of Life service will proceed at 11:00 AM with Rev. Kenneth L. Simon officiating.

It is appreciated, but not required, if those attending the services would consider wearing shades of crimson to embrace her affinity for the color “Cherry Red!”

At this time of intimate need and personal loss, the family of Cherry L. Turnage Robinson elected to entrust the Ministry of Comfort & Care, along with Transitional After-Care Arrangements to the J. E. Washington Funeral Services, 2234 Glenwood Avenue, Youngstown, Ohio, 330.782.8500.

Dance of the Red Roses

In the garden where love's whispers blend,
Red roses dance as the summer winds send,
Their petals are like silk, in the sunlight they gleam,
Dancing and swaying, a floral daydream.

Oh, the fragrance of passion, so sweet in the air,
Each blossom a heartbeat, a promise laid bare,
With laughter they flutter, their colors ablaze,
A symphony woven in sun's golden rays.

As twilight draws near, and the shadows grow long,
The roses keep twirling, an unending song.
In the hush of the night, they hold onto their grace,
Dreams painted red, in this heavenly place.