| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Cherry Morton Starr (née Cherry Louise Morton) |
| Birth Date | May 3, 1934 |
| Birthplace | Birmingham, Alabama, USA |
| Education | Sidney Lanier High School; Auburn University |
| Marriage | Bart Starr (m. May 1954 – 2019) |
| Children | Bart Starr Jr.; Bret Michael Starr (deceased 1988) |
| Career | Social worker; youth services advocate |
| Charitable Focus | At-risk youth, pediatric care, cancer research |
| Net Worth | Approx. $2 million |
| Death | February 27, 2024, Birmingham, AL at age 89 |
Early Life and Education
Born May 3, 1934, in Birmingham, Alabama, Cherry Louise Morton grew up in the Jim Crow South. She met her future husband, Bart Starr, at Montgomery’s Sidney Lanier High School. She attended Auburn University to develop her character and community involvement.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Birth Date | May 3, 1934 |
| Birthplace | Birmingham, Alabama, USA |
| High School | Sidney Lanier High School, Montgomery, AL |
| University | Auburn University |
Career and Philanthropy
Cherry Starr worked in vulnerable adolescent programs as a social worker. Her compassion led her to work with local agencies and community groups to provide hands-on support. She became a respected nonprofit leader by balancing professionalism and warmth.
| Organization | Role |
|---|---|
| Rawhide Youth Services | Volunteer and advocate since the 1960s |
| Starr Children’s Fund | Co-founder and board member |
| Bart & Cherry Starr Fdn. | Advisor and donor liaison |
Charitable Foundations and Initiatives
Cherry co-led various pediatric and youth development charities throughout her life. She led cancer research fundraising in her sports and coaching circles after personal tragedy. Her hands-on approach shaped ongoing programs.
| Foundation | Mission |
|---|---|
| Starr Children’s Fund | Support pediatric hospital programs |
| Bart & Cherry Starr Fdn. | Promote youth leadership and health research |
| Rawhide Youth Services | Rehabilitation and mentorship for at-risk boys |
Net Worth and Financial Overview
Cherry’s estate was worth $2 million upon her death, indicating her financial prudence and charity giving. Some estimate $1.5 million, but most agree on the greater sum. The $1 million Birmingham family home and her husband’s $4 million estate give financial background.
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Cherry’s Net Worth | Approximately $2 million |
| Alternate Estimate | $1.5 million |
| Bart Starr’s Net Worth (2019) | $4 million |
| Home Value | $1 million |
Family and Legacy
Starting as high school sweethearts, Cherry and Bart Starr worked together for 60 years to inspire others. They had two sons, Bart Starr Jr., who manages their philanthropy, and Bret Michael, who died in 1988. Cherry’s family and many recipients continued her efforts after her 2024 death.
| Relationship | Details |
|---|---|
| Spouse | Bart Starr (NFL Hall of Famer) |
| Children | Bart Starr Jr.; Bret Michael Starr (1961–1988) |
| Grandchildren & Beyond | Shannon, Jenny, Lisa; six great-grandchildren |
Personal and Physical Features
Cherry was often complemented by her Southern grace and aristocratic presentation. At 5’5” with classic features, she exuded approachable elegance. Her warmth, documented in innumerable community events, remains a touchstone for those who knew her.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Height | 165 cm (5’5”) |
| Weight | 60 kg (132 lbs) |
| Hair & Eyes | Black |
FAQ
When and where was Cherry Louise Morton born?
Cherry Louise Morton was born on May 3, 1934, in Birmingham, Alabama.
What was Cherry’s main profession?
She spent her career helping children and youth.
Which charities did she co-found?
She launched the Starr Children’s Fund and funded the Barbara Starr Foundation.
What was her estimated net worth?
She died with a $250-$1.5 million net worth.
Who are her surviving family members?
She is survived by her son Bart Starr Jr., grandchildren Shannon, Jenny, and Lisa, and six great-grandchildren.
When did Cherry pass away?
Cherry Louise Morton passed away on February 27, 2024, at her home in Birmingham.
