We are so very sad to share the news that our beloved friend and supporter, Marlon Cherry, passed away on July 29, surrounded by his loved ones. Marlon was a gifted musician and beautiful soul, always thinking of others and always committed to making the world a better place.
He had been ill, and about a year ago, contacted the Foundation to help him plan for the eventual rehoming of his huge collection of musical instruments. Marlon’s sparkle of love will live on forever.
May he rest in Peace and Love. 
We are so lucky to have had him with us in Harmony.
Marlon’s Obituary:
Marlon Cherry, musician, vocalist, song-writer, composer, multi-instrumentalist, dance accompanist, and beloved partner of Betsy Milliken, died at home on July 29th, 2026. Born August 14th, 1961 in Charlotte, North Carolina, Marlon spent time during his childhood in the home of his grandmother, where he fondly recalled playing by the creek and catching frogs, later falling in love with New York City during summertime visits to his mother. Marlon’s lifelong love of music began early, playing bass in his cousin’s band, spawning a vast, genre-defying life in music.
After moving to New York City, Marlon became part of the underground music scene, playing with bands including Mecca Bodega, Church of Betty, Afro Jersey, and the Jackson Pinks. He collaborated with artists such as Stew & The Negro Problem, Heidi Rodewald, Syd Straw, Penny Arcade, Eszter Balint, and Terre Roche among many others. Marlon released 4 original albums, “Elsewhere” (2001), “Ancient Sound, Modern Dance” (2006), “Fever Dreaming in Lo-Fi” (2023), and his early work compiled as “Life After Theatre / Pete”. In a recent interview, Marlon discussed his life in music and his philosophy of making music as “a constant journey towards inner peace.”
Marlon was the dedicated dance accompanist for Paul Taylor for 17 years, and played for legions of dancers, at Steps On Broadway with JoLea Maffei and at Barnard College with Caitlin Trainor, among many more. Thousands of dancers were moved by Marlon’s steadfast, supportive, and groovy rhythms. Three years ago, Marlon found his soul mate in Betsy. They met at his favorite hang-out, Rudy’s, and together enjoyed cooking, hanging out in the garden, and simply being. Betsy and Marlon found ease, unity, and joy in one another.
Perhaps even more than the breadth of his music making, Marlon will be remembered for his peaceful way. Marlon led with his spirit and a generous laugh, unassuming in both talent and intellect. His chill demeanor did not give away how well read he was, his bookshelves packed with volumes ranging from James Baldwin to Dostoyevsky, peace studies to Edgar Allen Poe. Marlon’s legacy reverberates through overlapping circles of friends, collaborators, dancers, and colleagues who will dearly miss him entering the room in his kufi and well worn motorcycle jacket with the tiny heart and peace pins on the collar.
In addition to Betsy, Marlon is survived by his mother Mary.
If you wish to make a charitable donation in memory of Marlon, he was a longtime supporter of the Spirit of Harmony Foundation.
Here is an excellent interview.
- “Up on the Roof” with David Nagler (and beautifully Marlon gestures)
- “Just How Beautiful”
- Afro-Jersey video
- Afro-Jersey Shenandoah
- Playing for JoLea’s Horton Class
- Spotify: There is more than one Marlon Cherry on Spotify. Select from the aforementioned album list to listen to our Marlon.