Marion Berry

Berry, Marion DELMAR Marion Kenneth Berry, 79, of Delmar, died peacefully Tuesday, February 19, 2008 at Daughters of Sarah Nursing Center after a long illness. She was born in Albany on August 6, 1928, the daughter of the late William A. and Marie Trossbach Kenneth. Mrs. Berry was a graduate of Roessele-ville High School, class of 1946 and the Junior College of Albany, proudly obtaining her degree cum laude at age 56. Marion had a lifelong love for music, studying voice and piano. In the late 1940s, one could tune into Albany's WOKO radio station and listen to her singing live with Forrest Willis. Mrs. Berry was for years a member of the St. Thomas the Apostle Church choir, often a soloist. When not active in the Delmar community or volunteering her time at the church or school of St. Thomas, Mrs. Berry was often found on the tennis court; an avid player as a youth, playing the game until her early 70s. Marion, a consummate learner, had a fondness for literature and was a devotee of ballet and operatic performances. She also enjoyed swimming, skiing, cooking and above all, travel with her husband and close friends. Marion will be remembered affectionately for her fun-loving humor, her tireless and selfless entertaining, and wearing a funny hat or costume, even if to celebrate Flag Day. Marion's children remember her as the greatest mom; making every holiday and birthday unique. She is survived by her son, Edward S. Berry Jr. and wife Jodi Anderson of Slingerlands; daughter, Eileen M. Berry of Santa Fe, N.M.; an adoring granddaughter, Sabina L. Berry and sister, Jeanne (James J.) Connors of Sarasota, Fla.; and many dear nieces, nephews and cousins. She was predeceased by her loving husband of 55 years, Edward S. Berry Sr., just over a year ago. Marion leaves behind many loving and caring friends, whom she also considered family. Relatives and friends are invited to call on Friday from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Applebee Funeral Home, 403 Kenwood Ave., Delmar. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 9:30 a.m. Saturday at St. Thomas the Apostle Church, Delmar. Burial will be in Calvary Cemetery, Glenmont. In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions in Marion's memory be made to the National Parkinson Foundation, www.parkinson.org; WMHT pubic radio and television, www.wmht.org; or St. Thomas the Apostle Church Memorial Fund, 35 Adams Pl., Delmar, NY 12054.