Mark Alan Berryman

Mark Alan Berryman of Athens, OH, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, surrounded by family.

He was born on August 1, 1962, in Baltimore, MD, to Gail and Kathleen Berryman. He graduated from Westminster High School, earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County, and his doctoral degree from the University of Virginia. He completed his postdoctoral work at Cornell University before landing his first faculty position in 1999 at the Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine at Ohio University.

He loved “cells” and teaching histology to students for more than 26 years. His colleagues in Biomedical Sciences and Biological Sciences were a big part of his daily life - the conversations, the scientific debates, the quiet problem-solving. As director of the microscopy core, he took real pride in helping people see things clearly - literally and figuratively. While he taught medical students for decades, he especially enjoyed mentoring undergraduates, guiding them through their first moments at the microscope or a Western blot and sharing his enthusiasm for science.

He met his wife almost 40 years ago at the Biology-Psychology Library at the University of Virginia, where he first made an impression by signing his name somewhat illegibly on a library card. His handwriting improved only slightly over the years, but his loyalty, humor, and devotion never wavered. He was funny in a way that caught you off guard - dry, clever, and often delivered with perfect timing. Food was his love language, whether planning a meal, perfecting a recipe, or reading critiques of potential restaurants. He had a deep affection for histology and cells and embraced his inner nerd without apology.

He was gregarious yet particular and frugal yet generous in the ways that mattered most. He dressed without much concern for fashion but carried a unique charm that made it irrelevant. He was authentically and unapologetically himself.

He loved his dogs fiercely, especially Barney (his favorite, even if he wouldn’t admit it). He loved music. He appreciated a well-made margarita. He admired Columbo and likely related to the rumpled brilliance. He was loyal - deeply so - and a steady, unwavering advocate for his family. He was especially beloved by his sons’ friends, who found in him humor, acceptance, and easy conversation.

Above all, he was true to himself and to the people he loved.

He was very much looking forward to seeing the opening of the Heritage Translational Research Center and to celebrating his wife’s 60th birthday on a long-planned trip. Even in his final months, he was thinking ahead about family milestones, future trips, and the plans of his sons and their significant others, Colleen and Emma.

He is survived by his wife of almost 34 years, Darlene; his sons, Evan and Jefferson; his brother, Tim; his in-laws (Robert and Karen Evans); his sisters- and brothers-in-law (Roane, Monica, Shannon, and Beth); and nieces and nephews (Kaitlin, Ellee, Adam, Lauren, Maddax, and Cooper). He was preceded in death by his parents, Gail and Kathleen.

In keeping with his wishes, no formal funeral service will be held. A celebration of life is being planned to be held on Saturday, July 18, 2026 with a venue and time being announced on a later date.

The family asks that in lieu of flowers those who wish to honor his memory consider contributing to the Joe Burrow Foundation, reflecting his love of food, Athens, and its wonderful community. You may do this at joeburrow.org and click on the donate button. Please be sure to list "Mark Berryman" in the box labeled, "this donation is for." Arrangements have been entrusted to Hughes Funeral Home of Athens where you may sign the online guestbook at www.ehwfh.com.