James R. “Dickie” Berry, 82, passed away peacefully on July 10, 2026, at North Alabama Medical Center with his loving wife by his side.
Dickie was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend whose greatest pride was his family. He lived a life defined by hard work, integrity, and unwavering dedication to those he loved. His strength, honest spirit, and dependable nature earned him the respect and love of everyone who knew him.
Throughout his distinguished career, Dickie was recognized as an exceptional leader in industrial maintenance. He retired as a General Foreman at Reynolds Metals, later served as Maintenance Director at Wise Alloys, and concluded his career as Vice President of Listerhill Total Maintenance. His knowledge, leadership, and strong work ethic left a lasting impact on the many people who had the privilege of working alongside him.
Above all, Dickie was a family man. He shared a lifetime of love and devotion with his beloved wife of nearly 63 years, Gaye Smith Berry. Together, they built a life filled with love, commitment, and cherished memories. His family was his greatest joy, and his legacy will live on through the values he instilled.
He is survived by his loving wife, Gaye Smith Berry; his son, Lee Smith Berry, and daughter-in-law, Casey Berry; his cherished grandchildren, Abbey Berry and Lee Smith Berry Jr; His brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Billy and Sherry Smith; and sister-in-law Faye Smith Olive; as well as extended family and countless friends who will forever treasure his memory.
He was preceded in death by his son, Steven Mark Berry; his grandson, Coleman Smith Berry; his parents, Ray and Aileen M. Berry; his father in-law and mother-in-law, Aaron and Christine Smith; and his brother-in-law, Ronny Olive.
Although his final weeks were difficult, Dickie was surrounded by the constant love and presence of his family. The devotion shown to him throughout his illness was a reflection of the strength and dedication he poured into others.
Dickie will be remembered for his steadfast devotion to his family, his remarkable career, his exceptional leadership, and the bravery to be himself that guided him throughout his life. His legacy of hard work, love, wisdom, and perseverance will continue through those who knew and loved him.
He will be deeply missed, but his memory will remain a blessing to all who had the privilege of knowing him.
There will be a graveside service held Sunday, July 12, 2026, at Greenview Memorial Park at 2:00 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to St Jude Children’s Research Hospital or Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital Foundation in Dickie’s
