Deacon Fred Berry Sr.

1928 - 2016

Deacon Fred Berry Sr. was born April 2, 1928 to the union of Abram and Elizabeth (Emmitt) Berry in Allen, LA. Fred confessed a hope in Christ at an early age in Allen, LA on the Mourner's Bench. Fred attended public school in Allen, LA. After his formal education, Fred enlisted in the Army and was honorably discharged from the Army after the Korean War in 1953. Upon returning to Louisiana in 1953, Fred married the LOVE of his life, Essie Lee Jenkins. After uniting in Holy Matrimony, Fred and Essie relocated to Gary, IN where they began their life together and their beautiful children were born. Fred joined the New Hope M.B. Church under the tutelage of Rev. Clarence Lobdell. As a devout member, he served as Chairman of the Board for over 50 years, Superintendent of Sunday School, and organized Men of Hope which stemmed from the Million Man March. Serving Christ as a Member of New Hope was his life. He was a Master Builder and Masonry `and alongside his Christian brothers assisted with building the structure on 23rd and Rhode Island that became New Hope MB Church. Fred entered a race on April 2, 1928, ran his race very well, and finished his course August 5, 2016 at 2:20 p.m. at the St. Mary Medical Center, Hobart, IN surrounded by his dedicated and loving family. Fred Berry Sr. was preceded in death by his parents; wife; daughter, Patricia Bluiett; son-in-law, Willie Bluiett Sr.; 17 brothers and sisters. Fred's legacy and memories will be cherished by his 4 sons, Michael Berry, Verdell Berry, Fred Berry, Jr. and Anthony (Tikia) Berry; 2 daughters, Jacqueline (Barry) Johnson and Michelle (Ray) Matthews; 1 brother, Cain Berry; 3 sisters, Betsy Mayo, Lillian Hagen and Teola Berry; 1 brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Betty (Emmitt) Springfield; 31 grandchildren; host of great-great grandchildren; nieces; nephews; cousins; friends and The New Hope MB Church Family. All services will be held at New Hope Missionary Baptist Church 2307 Rhode Island Street Gary, Indiana 46407. Visitation will be Friday, August 12, 2016 12:00p.m.-8:00p.m with a musical beginning at 6:00 p.m.. Homegoing will be held Saturday, August 13, 2016 at 11:00a.m. Eulogy by Bishop Sieon C. Roberts Sr. Deacon Berry will be laid to rest at Oak Hill Cemetery. Arrangements entrusted to Manuel Memorial Funeral Home