Pastor Debra Berry

1956 - 2024

Pastor Debra Sue Berry

Nov 27, 1956 - Jun 4, 2024

LaRue

Pastor Debra Sue "Deb" Berry passed away peacefully June 4, 2024, at her home.

A beloved and cherished member of the community, she dedicated 25 years of her life serving as a beacon of faith and hope.

Debra was born Nov. 27, 1956, in Norwalk, to Theodore and Mildred (Deitrick) Kearney.

Deb was a graduate of Ehove JVS in Norwalk. She then went to Duke Seminary, receiving a pastoral degree, and would ultimately become an Associate Pastor through West Ohio Conference of the United Methodist Church in 2010. From 1999-2010, she passionately preached at Holgate Methodist Church, leaving an unforgettable mark on all who had the privilege to hear her. Alongside her duties, in recent years, she shared her wisdom and kindness as a part-time pastor and a friend to all in the congregation at Rinehart United Methodist Church.

Prior to her passing, Pastor Deb was appointed to start as pastor at LaRue United Methodist Church, where her guidance touched countless lives. Debra served as the church secretary, bringing her dedication and organizational skills to the community she loved.

Beyond her ministry, Debra found comfort in the simple joys of life. Gardening and cherishing moments with her beloved friends and pets were some of her favorites. But most of all, she adored her family, particularly her two grandchildren. She leaves a legacy of compassion, faith, and love that will forever be remembered by all who were fortunate enough to know her. Her spirit will continue to inspire and guide us all.

Deb is survived by her husband, Richard (Rick) Berry, whom she married Sept. 16, 1978, in Columbia, South Carolina, after just three months of knowing one another. This September would've been 46 years of marriage. She is also survived by their son, Tony (Amanda Harvey) Berry of LaRue; granddaughter, Korryn Berry of LaRue; grandson, Coltin Berry of St. Paul, Minnesota; sisters-in-law, Sharon Kearney and Sokim Berry; cousin and lifelong friend, Luana (John) Mathew; and three dogs and two cats whom she and Rick shared together.

She was preceded in death by her parents; brother, Thedore Kearney; sister, Donna Feichtner; brothers-in-law, John Feichtner and Mike Berry; and nephew, Owen Feichtner.

Deb's funeral will be 11 a.m. Monday, June 10, 2024, at LaRue United Methodist Church. Pastor Mike Raypholtz will officiate and burial will follow at LaRue Cemetery. Visitation for friends will be 2-4 p.m. Sunday, June 9, 2024, at Stofcheck-Ballinger Funeral Home in LaRue.

Memorial gifts can be made to LaRue United Methodist Church, 166 N. High St., LaRue, Ohio, 43332, or Rhinehart United Methodist Church, 17680 TR 195, Kenton, Ohio, 43326.

Condolences and remembrances may be expressed at www.stofcheck-ballinger.com.