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Marion Berry (1942–2023), former U.S. representative from Arkansas 

by Linnea Crowther

Marion Berry was a Democrat who represented Arkansas’ 1st District in the U.S. House of Representatives from 1997 to 2011. 

Marion Berry’s legacy 

Berry grew up on his family’s rice farm, becoming a farmer himself after studying pharmacy at the University of Arkansas. He entered politics as a city alderman in Gillett, Arkansas, then served on the Arkansas Soil and Water Conservation Commission.  

Elected to Congress the first time he ran, in 1996, Berry served on the powerful House Committee on Appropriations, as well as on subcommittees, including Military Construction and Veterans Affairs, and Homeland Security. As a member of the House Budget Committee, he worked toward a balanced budget. Berry became known as an outspoken representative who often brought humor to the halls of Congress. 

Berry continued to manage his farm during and after his time in office. He served for seven terms before choosing not to seek reelection in 2010. 

Tributes to Marion Berry 

Full obituary: Arkansas Democrat Gazette 

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