Thomas Joseph “Joe” Berry of Fairview, Texas, passed away peacefully on February 23, 2019 at the age of 89. Joe was loved dearly by his family and friends. He was a southern gentleman known for his giving heart, strong Catholic Faith, service to country and devotion to family.
Joe was born on November 9, 1929 to William George Berry and Mildred Philomena Healy Berry in Ft. Worth, Texas. At 14, Joe began working for the Texas & Pacific Railroad. In 1947, he graduated from R. L. Paschal High School in Ft. Worth, Texas. During high school, he played multiple sports while working two jobs.
At 17, Joe enlisted in the United States Navy and served during the Korean and Vietnam Wars. He traveled extensively during his 22 year career as a Chief Aerographer’s Mate. On November 17, 1969, he retired as a Master Chief Petty Officer (E-9).
After serving in the Navy, Joe worked for 22 years as a foreman for Texas Electronics, Inc. Many of the weather instruments that he built are still being used at various landmarks across the country.
Joe loved life and was extremely proud of his Irish heritage. He was a member of the VFW and American Legion. He was devoted to the Carmelite Nuns of Dallas. He enjoyed participating at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton, St. Jude’s Catholic Church, and the Plano Senior Center. He was an avid golfer who also enjoyed bowling, but will be especially remembered for his love of music and dancing.
Joe was married to Barbara Hurley Berry for thirty-five years. Together, they raised their five children in Irving, Texas. His children adored him.
He is survived by his children Anna Marie Allen and husband, Raymond of Fairview, Texas, Daniel Joseph Berry and wife, Shellie of Petaluma, California, Julia Rose Smith of Phoenix, Arizona, Retired Lieutenant Colonel Linda Diane Berry of Phoenix, Arizona and Martha Berry Shields and husband, Jim of Gold Canyon, Arizona. He will be honored by his grandchildren, Raymond Allen III, Kathleen Rendek, Marissa Lewis, Brendan Berry, Joshua Berry, Christopher Allen and Lucas Berry; sister, Mary Ann Conley and husband, Ken of Pantego, Texas; brother, Patrick George Berry of Addison, Texas; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Joe was preceded in death by his brother, William “Billy” Bernard Berry and parents.
A Rosary will be prayed in honor of Joe at St. Jude’s Catholic Church in Allen, Texas on Friday, March 1, 2019 at 1:15 p.m. A A Funeral Mass will be held at 2:00 p.m. followed by a reception. Joe will be laid to rest at Mt. Olivet Cemetery in Ft. Worth, Texas on Saturday, March 2, 2019 at 1:00 p.m. with full military honors.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to a charity of your choice in his memory.
Joe will be forever remembered as a hero to his sister and brother and the “Best Dad Ever” to his children. Most importantly, he will be cherished as God’s humble servant who lived by Faith, Hope and Love.
We miss you, Dad.