Doris Ruth Berry, 88, of Florence passed away on Tuesday, January 13, 2015 at Glenwood Healthcare. Visitation will be from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Thursday, January 15, 2015 at Elkins Funeral Home in Florence. The funeral service will follow at 1 p.m. with Bro. Kevin Johnson officiating. Burial will be in Tri-Cities Memory Gardens.
The youngest daughter of William and Ida Davis, Doris attended the Massey Business College then graduated from Florence Teachers College where she became a Certified Professional Secretary. She then served as the Administrative Assistant to the Superintendent of Florence City Schools. Doris was a member of the National Secretary Association and was presented the Alabama Secretary of the Year Award on May 21, 1977, after having received the Muscle Shoals Chapter Secretary of the Year Award earlier.
Doris was a member of First Baptist Church in Florence since 1945 and loved attending the “Ruth” Sunday School Class. She also shared her passion for singing with the church choir for over 30 years. Doris spent many hours sewing, crocheting, and other needlework for family and friends. She would often make blankets for the homeless and childrens’ drives. Most of all, Doris will be remembered as “The Caregiver” for everyone around her.
Survivors include her son, William Bryant Berry of Florence; grandchildren, Sarah Lynn Berry, Rachel Elizabeth Berry, Hannah Marie Berry, and William Joshua Berry all of Florence; sister, Willodean “Billie” Parris of Tuscaloosa; and a number of beloved nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her husband of 63 years, Reynold Berry; son, Phillip Wayne Berry; and sisters, Earlene Berry, Vernell Pierce, and Edna Bryson.
Special thanks are given to Dr. Lyman Mitchell for his years of compassionate care, and to the nurses and staff at Glenwood Healthcare for their wonderful care given to Doris.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to First Baptist Church of Florence in honor of Reynold and Doris.
