Orange Cheatem III

Born to Orange Cheatem Jr and Martha Cheatem, Orange grew up in Chicago, Illinois. At birth, Orange was diagnosed with Down syndrome. During those times, this diagnosis brought many stigmas, however it never prevented him from living a full life, full of love, laughter and joy. He had a profound love for Jesus and music. Orange attended Day School in Chicago, Illinois until he was 17 years old.

In 1964 the family relocated to Kansas City, Missouri. Due to racial tensions at that time, his mother was protective and kept him home. While he did not attend school, his love for church grew. Orange was an honorable member of the choir, his favorite song was, "Going Up Yonder." He continued his love of the Lord by attending church every Wednesday and Sunday. In between times, he would listen to his favorite tunes by Sam Cooke and Otis Redding on his transistor radio. He loved his dog, Duke. And he loved his family.

Orange was adorningly known as the "baby whisperer". He expressed such tenderness when holding a baby that the most challenging would soon be rocked to sleep in his loving arms. Orange exuded peace and calmness in every space he occupied. Orange was a very timely person, his internal clock kept the rest of the family organized beyond measure. We knew the next assignment by watching Orange's behavior. On church days, he was the first to be booted and suited, waiting on the sofa for everyone else to follow suit. Orange was a complex individual with many layers to enjoy, however his simple remedy to life was to love. Very simple. Love.

When the family relocated to Des Moines, Iowa, Orange's life flourished and he began to walk in his purpose. Orange attended Day Services through Easter Seals of Iowa. This connection exposed Orange to many opportunities. He thrived and found purpose as he explored unlimited possibilities.

He enjoyed attending Life Club through Easter Seals where he learned many life skills, made a lot of friends, enjoyed community outings, and was empowered to be a viable member of his community. He loved looking out of the window in the mornings, lunch box in hand, and yelling when the bus arrived, "Bye! I'm going to work!"

Orange was loved by everyone he encountered. We could never write enough, or eloquent enough to capture the true essence of Orange. The world diagnosed him as limited, but there were no limitations to the use of his abilities God gave him.

The average lifespan of someone with Downs during the time Orange was young was 25 years of age. Although the age has increased over the years, studies show that life can vary by race and socioeconomic factors, with some minority populations having lower survival rates. This statistic was the driving force to advocate for Orange and allow him to live his life to the fullest. No written prescription could have extended his life to this stage, it was nothing but the absolute love of God that was shown to Orange. To God be the glory.

Orange was preceded in death by his parents Orange Cheatem Jr., and Martha Cheatem, brothers Joseph Cheatem, David Cheatem, Charles Cheatem, and Anthony Cheatem. His sisters, Minnie Cheatem and Frances Morrow.

He leaves to mourn his brothers John, Russell, Ronald, Maurice, and Johnathan. His sisters Kathey Eady, Claudine Cheatem, and Deborah Alexander (Ronnie) along with a host of nieces, nephews, and extended family and friends.