Henry Lee Berry

Henry Lee Berry, longtime resident of Quitman and beloved father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and nephew, passed away on June 28, 2024 in Tyler at the age of 65.

Henry was born on October 19, 1958, in Mineola to Nancy Berry Gilliam.

Henry's life was characterized by dedication and service. After graduating from Quitman High School in 1978, he was employed at Boyd Exxon. He worked several years for the station in the early 80’s and was the “cool dad” to have two stores help him with raising his girls. Jack Cox, owner of Pit Stop Service Station held an account for him where his daughters would often get snacks after school.

He later embarked on a career with Peoples Telephone where he worked over two decades in the Installation and Repair department before retiring in 2004.

Henry was known for his exceptional generosity; he was always willing to help those in need and was involved in various community service activities. His reputation as a handyman or "Mr. Fix It" preceded him, with his ability to mend and build fences, mow lawns, or tackle nearly any repair task earning him admiration from all who knew him. Additionally, Henry was a lifelong member of Brock’s Chapel UMC.

Beyond his professional and community contributions, Henry's true joy came from his family. Among his most cherished memories were those spent with his children and grandchildren, who affectionately called him Papa. He held his family close to his heart and shared a strong bond with all his loved ones. He found joy in hosting family BBQ’s, Fish Fry gatherings, and hosting the annual Easter Egg Hunt – all while embodying his roots as a country boy at heart. His passion for horses led him to enjoy trail riding and restoring old wagons for trail rides. He also enjoyed dancing and listening to Blues music.

Waiting to greet him in Heaven is his wife, Glennis Berry; mother, Nancy Berry Gilliam; grandparents, A.D. and Eugene Berry; two aunts, Cathy Berry and Flora Kendricks; and two uncles, Ricky Berry and A.J. Berry.

The memories of Henry will forever be etched in the hearts of his surviving family members. He leaves behind his three children, Shronda Berry, Whitney Berry and fiance Joshua Robertson, and Tara Berry; two siblings, Royce Berry and Donna Berry; four grandchildren, Jaiela Nobles, Lyric Nobles, Sebastian Fields, and Gavin Fields; and a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and numerous friends.

The family would also like to give special thanks to Sharon Castleberry and Joshua Robertson for their special help and care.

A Homegoing Celebration to honor the life of Henry Lee Berry will be held at 11:00 AM, Saturday, July 13, 2024 at Brock’s Chapel United Methodist Church. 

In the quiet moments when we miss him most profoundly or when we feel the urge to lend a helping hand just like he would have done – Henry's spirit will continue to guide us. May we carry forward his legacy of kindness and compassion as we honor the memory of this remarkable man who touched so many lives with love. May he rest in eternal peace.