Francis Adams Cherry was born in Fort Worth, Texas. He 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.
Cherry 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.
Cherry ran for a second term but was defeated by Orval Faubus.
Cherry is buried at the Oaklawn Cemetery in Jonesboro, Arkansas.