James Verlin Berry

Passed away on Friday, July 19, 2024 surrounded by his family.

James was born on November 30, 1933 in St. Bernice, Indiana.  He attended schools in Dana, Indiana and Scottland, Illinois graduating in 1951. After graduation, he entered the US Navy serving on the USS Hailey defending our nation in the Korean War. As a seaman, he circumnavigated the globe twice. Upon separation from military service, he had various employments until settling on Fisher Body Division of General Motors Corporation in Willow Springs, Illinois. He remained a full-time employee until his retirement in 1989. He lived in Lockport for 67 years before moving to Kenosha, Wisconsin in 2022 to be closer to his sons.

James loved his garden and spent hours on end tending it. He enjoyed playing cards and shooting pool. In addition, he enjoyed volunteering his time as a cook for Saturday morning breakfast, mentoring and attending functions at a local social club. He also was a 33 year member of 1st Baptist Church of Lockport.

Preceded in death are his parents, James E. Berry I and Maxine H. (nee Gebhart); sisters, Wanda (Samford) and Shirley (Rush), brother Floyd, son Roger, and grandson William.

James is survived by his beloved wife of 68 years Gladys (nee Bowen); his loving sons James E II (Gayle) of Kenosha, Wisconsin, Wayne A (Cheryl) of Kenosha, Wisconsin, Brian K (Dawn) of Covington, Washington; Cherished grandsons, James E III, Matthew W, Jacob A, Wyatt JV, Christian K.; Cherished granddaughters, Andrea C. and Rebecca H. and 10 dearest great-grandchildren.

Visitation and Chapel Service on Saturday, July 27, 2024 at O'NEIL FUNERAL HOME 1105 E. 9th St., Lockport from Noon to time of Chapel Service at 3:00pm with Military Honors by the US Navy and then Pastor Gil Palmer of 1st Baptist Church in Lockport.  Private Interment at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery.  For Info: (815) 838-5010 or www.oneilfuneralhome.com