David Lee Berry Sr.

David Lee Berry Sr., 79, of Humble, Texas, passed away on January 1, 2026.

David was born on December 23, 1946, in Galveston County, Texas. His family later settled in Simonton, Texas, where he lived until entering the U.S. Army in 1965. In his early years, David managed U-Tex Metals before becoming an owner-operator running hot-shot loads, a line of work well suited to his independence and strong work ethic.

David was preceded in death by his parents, Hugh and Jewell Berry; his brothers, H.E. Berry and Johnnie Berry; his sister, Sammie Berry McDonald; his daughter, Michelle Renee Berry; his son, David Lee Berry Jr.; and his grandson, Craig Ryan Hardy.

In his younger days, David loved fast cars and motorcycles, proudly owning Corvettes and Gold Wing motorcycles. Some of his happiest memories were Sundays spent fishing for big catfish with family in Simonton and summers together in New Braunfels. Once his grandchildren were born, they became the center of his world, and he made it a priority to be a constant presence in their lives. He enjoyed watching football and boxing, old westerns, eating Mexican food, and was a lifelong John Wayne fan.

David loved his family beyond measure. He would do anything for them-often offering his unsolicited opinion first, but always showing up to help afterward. If you ever borrowed money from him, you could be certain your name was written down in his tablet, and he would remember every penny until it was paid back, a trait that always gave the family a good laugh. Above all, his grandchildren were the apple of his eye, and his devotion to his family was unwavering.

David is survived by his daughter, Jennifer Neal and husband Johnnie; stepdaughter, Brenda Hooker and husband Kenneth; stepson, Charles Sparks; grandchildren, Gavin and Garrison Moritz, Skyler and Spencer Hooker, and Brady and Carlee Sparks; along with numerous nieces and nephews.

David, lovingly known as Dad, Papa and Big David, touched the lives of many and will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. A celebration of life honoring David will be held at a later date, with details to be shared with family and friends.