John Dennis Berry

John Dennis Berry, born June 17, 1942, to Ms. Mary Lee Woods and Mr. Oscar "Buck" Berry in Lauderdale County, AL, passed away peacefully at home on December 21, 2024, surrounded by his loving family.

John attended West End High School in Florence, AL. Over the years, he honed various skills and trades, eventually becoming the first African-American Supervisor for the City of Florence. He retired in 2004 after 30 years of dedicated service as the Facilities Maintenance Supervisor. John confessed his faith early in life at Springhill Missionary Baptist Church and later joined Good Hope Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Pastor F.C. Rowlett. There, he faithfully served in various roles, including the groundskeeping ministry, transportation ministry, usher board, benevolent ministry, and as church treasurer, under the leadership of Pastor Ralph Thompson.

John found joy in golfing, watching football, spending time outdoors with his grandchildren, studying his Bible, and making frequent trips to Walmart. He was preceded in death by his brothers, Frank Berry and James Oscar Berry; his sister, Etta Williams; and his granddaughter, Ja'Chandra Carr, all of Florence, AL.

John is survived by his devoted wife of 34 years, Shirley Armstead Berry; two sons, Collis Campbell (Regina) of Florence, AL, and Derrick Irons (Angela) of Trussville, AL; four daughters, Cassandra Brannon of Florence, AL, LatTeida Moss (Zefross) of Madison, AL, Shonda Jones (Eric) of Florence, AL, and LaMonica Little (James) of Tuscaloosa, AL. He also leaves behind 15 grandchildren, 4 great-grandchildren, a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends, along with special cousin Estelle Woods and dear friends Bill Johnson, Willam “Jake” Coleman, and Deacon Richard Ed Turner and Mrs. Glenda Turner.

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