James Berry
James Edward Berry
James Edward Berry was born on May 14th, 1947 in Parkersburg, WV to James and Mary Agnes Berry. Jim graduated from Belpre High School in 1966. He then enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served from 1966-1970.
Jim was so very proud of being in the Navy and told many stories of being on the ship and the ports they visited. He was a third class machinist and served on the ships USS Zelima and the USS Ashtabula.
Jim married Louise Harriman on May 15th, 1982. They had four children, Jimmy, Jeremy, Jodi and Julie.
He instilled in his family how a great father and grandfather should be, especially his grandchildren, whom he loved so much. They were everything to him.
Jim was a member of the Ogle's Ridge Church and he was a trustee for many years, helping with whatever projects they had.
Jim never met a stranger. He was always there to help others. He considered everyone a friend. While serving in Viet Nam, he had contracted Agent Orange. Jim passed away on November 5th, 2015.
On November 11th, 2019, Jim's ashes were put on the Gerald R. Ford ship and taken out to sea. At 9 A.M. the command was announced, "All hands, bury the dead!" Sailors stood in formation in their dress blues. A rifle volley shot towards the horizon and salutes were rendered as he was lowered into the Atlantic Ocean as "Taps" were played.
A kind, gentle man who stood 6' 6". A lot of laughing and great memories were made in his lifetime, which he shared with so many who miss him terribly.