Cheek Family Genealogy & History

Molly Cheek, born on March 2, 1950, is a renowned American actress recognized for her dynamic roles in television and film. A graduate of Connecticut College, Cheek honed her acting skills in dinner-theater productions and summer stock before transitioning to television and film. She is best known for her roles as Nancy Bancroft on "It's Garry Shandling's Show" (1986–1990) and Nancy Henderson on "Harry and the Hendersons" (1991–1993). Cheek also gained popularity for playing the mother of Jim Levenstein in the "American Pie" film series. Her diverse filmography includes appearances in "Purple People Eater" (1988), "April's Shower" (2003), and "Drag Me to Hell" (2009).

Joel Owsley Cheek (1852–1935) was a pioneering American businessman and philanthropist best known for founding the Maxwell House coffee brand. Born in Burkesville, Kentucky, Cheek launched his career as a teacher before becoming a successful salesman and investor. In 1901, he opened a coffee shop in Nashville with partners, branding their coffee after the Maxwell House Hotel. The brand, famous for its "good to the last drop" slogan, gained immense popularity and was sold to Postum Co. for $42 million in 1928. Despite selling the brand, Cheek remained a prominent figure in its advertising until his death.

Cheek married Minnie Ritchey in 1873, and they had eleven children. His cousins owned Cheekwood, which later became a museum. Cheek lived in Nashville, Tennessee, advocating for prohibition and maintaining a lifestyle free of smoking and alcohol. His legacy continues with his portrait in the Cumberland County Library in Burkesville, Kentucky.

Tom Cheek was a legendary American sports commentator, renowned for his tenure as the play-by-play radio announcer for the Toronto Blue Jays from 1977 to 2004. His remarkable career included a 27-year streak of 4,306 consecutive games, earning him a place in the Blue Jays Level of Excellence. Cheek's iconic call, "Touch 'em all, Joe," during Joe Carter's home run in the 1993 World Series, remains a highlight of his broadcasting legacy. He was posthumously awarded the 2013 Ford C. Frick Award, recognizing his significant contributions to baseball broadcasting.

Tom Cheek was born and raised in Pensacola, Florida. His father, also named Tom Cheek, was a distinguished United States Naval Aviator during World War II and a Navy Cross recipient for his bravery at the Battle of Midway.

Alison Mary Cheek was a trailblazing religious leader known for her pivotal role in the ordination of women in the Episcopal Church in the United States. Born in Australia, she became the first woman to publicly celebrate the Eucharist in this denomination, marking a significant milestone in church history. Cheek's advocacy for women's ordination and her appearance on the cover of Time magazine as one of 1975's Women of the Year underscore her influence and dedication to gender equality in religious ministry.

Alison Mary Cheek, née Western, was born in Adelaide, South Australia, to Hedley and Dora (Whiting) Western. Her father was a fruit farmer, while her mother was a homemaker, providing a supportive family environment that influenced her journey and accomplishments.