Erroyl Louis Cheatham

Erroyl served in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam war. While he was stationed in Japan he achieved the judo rank of Shodan at the Kodokan. Following his deployment, Erroyl continued his dedication to his country and community enlisting in the National Guard and retired as an E6 Staff Sergeant after 20 years of service. Erroyl continued his commitment to his community by working in Corrections and Law Enforcement until retirement.

Throughout his life, Erroyl established many Judo clubs across multiple states that are in still in operation. He established Wakaishu Judo club of Louisville 1977. Erroyl remained a significant figure in the local Judo and martial arts community his entire life. He ultimately obtained the senior rank of Rokudan. He is widely recognized as “Kentucky’s Sensei.”

He is preceded in death by his father, William “Red” Cheatham.

Erroyl is survived by his wife, Omega Cheatham and his mother, Edna "Sis" Roberts, his children: Tadiwa, Marian Cheatham, Marcus Cheatham, Rebecca Taylor and Douglas Taylor (Quinn). He is also survived by his siblings: Cassius "Spanky" Roberts, Llewellyn Roberts, Harry Roberts, Berry Roberts, Othella Roberts-Burrell, Versie Roberts, his aunt, Drucilla Lyons and grandchildren, Daishon and Shaniah. Erroyl left behind many other family members, friends, and his Judo children for whom he was their surrogate “Sensei father.”

A visitation will be held from 12-7pm on Friday, May 28, 2021 with a funeral service to be held at 6pm that evening. All serivices will take place at Arch L. Heady-Cralle Funeral Home, 2428 Frankfort Ave, Louisville KY 40206. A graveside service will be held at Kentucky Veterans Cemetery Central in Radcliff, KY on Wednesday, June 2nd at 12:30pm.