Berry Family History
The Berry family’s origin, a mosaic of diverse interests, talents, and values, is woven with threads of love, laughter, and enduring family traditions. Talmadge Wilson Berry and Julia Sandidge’s legacies continue to inspire and shape the familial bond that persists through the generations, a testament to the resilience, love, and shared history that define the remarkable Berry family.
Talmadge Berry (1915)
Julia Sandidge (1916-1994)
Julia S. Berry Diggs, daughter of the late Edward and Willie Sandidge, entered this world on September 27, 1916, in Amherst County, Virginia. On Monday, May 9, 1994, she peacefully transitioned to eternal life at the Medical Care Center in Lynchburg, VA. Her journey was one marked by faith, love, and devotion to family.
From an early age, Julia found solace in her faith and became a member of Timothy Baptist Church in Amherst County. Later in life, she was joined in holy matrimony to the late Talmadge W. Berry, with whom she shared the joys and challenges of raising seven children.
Throughout her life, Julia demonstrated unwavering strength and resilience, facing both joyous moments and difficult trials with grace and dignity. She was preceded in death by her son, James E. Berry, her grandson, Wallace E. Douglas, and her second husband, Peyton Lewis Diggs.
Julia leaves behind a legacy of love that will forever be cherished by her surviving children: Thomas W. Berry and Mrs. Doris B. Anderson of Baltimore, MD; Mrs. Bessie B. Campbell, Mrs. Janet B. Douglas, Mrs. Martha B. Hunt, and J. Winston Berry of Amherst, Virginia. She is also survived by her sister, Mrs. Lottie Franklin of Madison Heights, VA, as well as numerous sons-in-law, daughter-in-law, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, a devoted niece, Beth Payne, and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.
Today, we honor and celebrate the life of Julia S. Berry Diggs, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. May her memory continue to inspire us all, and may her legacy of love live on in our hearts forever.
Silas Berry Sr. (1890–Unknown)
The roots of the Berry family delve deep into the late 19th century in Virginia, finding their foundation in the life of Silas Berry Sr., born in 1890. Alongside his partner, Maggie Berry, the couple embarked on a journey that would shape the family’s enduring legacy. Silas, a devoted tenant farmer, and Maggie, whose maiden name remains unknown, welcomed seven children into the world: Silas L. Berry Jr., Pershing Berry, Myrtle Jones, Talmadge Berry, Harvey Berry, Ethel Johnson, and Gladys Jones.
Silas L. Berry Jr. (1917–1998)
In the heart of Amherst, Virginia, Silas Leonard Berry Jr. emerged as a cornerstone in the Berry family’s tale. Born on May twentieth, nineteen seventeen, Silas Jr. played a unique role in shaping the family narrative. He married Bertha Berry, and their union brought forth a trio of beautiful souls: Reddie Jenkins, Selena Arterberry, and Shirlene Berry. Silas Jr. passed away on May nineteenth, nineteen ninety-eight, at the age of eighty, leaving behind a familial legacy.
Silas Leonard Berry Jr., born on May 20, 1917, in Amherst, VA, was one of seven children born to the late Silas Berry Sr. and Maggie Roberson Berry. On Saturday, May 16, 1998, after a long illness, he was called to rest at Sound Shore Medical Center in New Rochelle, NY.
Silas received his formal education in the public schools of Amherst before relocating to New York, where he resided for over 50 years. It was in New York that Silas met the love of his life, Bertha L. Jenkins, from South Carolina. They entered into holy matrimony on September 18, 1957, in New Rochelle, NY, and were blessed with three children.
A dedicated employee of General Motors, Silas retired on May 1, 1983. He was a faithful member of Shiloh Baptist Church in New Rochelle. Silas had a passion for fishing, and his culinary skills were a blessing to all who had the pleasure of experiencing them.
Silas leaves behind his beloved wife, one son, Freddie Jenkins of Detroit, MI, and two daughters, Selena Arterberry of Richmond Heights, OH, and Shirlene Berry of New Rochelle, NY. He is also survived by his son-in-law, Melvin Arterberry; grandchildren Jacqlyn, Moriah, Shaina, and Selena Berry-Hackett; sister Myrtle Jones and brother Pershing Berry of Amherst, VA; as well as several sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
He was preceded in death by his sisters Ethel Johnson of Amherst, VA, and Gladys Jones of New Rochelle, NY, and his brothers Talmadge Berry of Washington, D.C., and Harvey Berry of New Rochelle, NY.
Today, we honor and cherish the memory of Silas Leonard Berry Jr., a loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend. May his legacy continue to inspire us all.
Myrtle Berry Jones (1912 – 2002)
On Friday, March 22, 2002, our beloved Myrtle Berry Jones peacefully departed this life at Western Wake Medical Center in Cary, NC, leaving behind a legacy of love and cherished memories.
Myrtle was born on March 20, 1912, in Amherst County, VA, to the late Deacon Silas Berry and the late Maggie Robinson Berry. She received her formal education from the Amherst County Public School System and embraced her faith at an early age, becoming a devoted member of Mount Shiloh Baptist Church in Monroe, VA.
On August 4, 1932, Myrtle exchanged vows with the love of her life, Royal T. Jones, Sr., and together they embarked on a journey filled with love and devotion. Throughout their union, they were blessed with six children: Lee B. Jones, Gilbert P. Jones, Mildred C. Jones Street, Janet Y. Jones Rucker, Royal T. Jones Jr., and Tony M. Jones.
Myrtle was known for her unwavering love and care as a wife, mother, and grandmother. Her home was a sanctuary of warmth and hospitality, where family always came first. She touched the lives of many with her kindness, grace, and gentle spirit.
Though she has departed from this earthly realm, Myrtle leaves behind a treasure trove of memories to be cherished by her loved ones. She is survived by her two daughters, Mildred C. Street and Janet Rucker (Samuel); two sons, Royal T. Jones Jr. (Constance) and Tony M. Jones; her daughter-in-law, Delilah K. Jones; her brother, Pershing Berry (Doris); numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren; along with a host of relatives and friends who were touched by her presence.
Today, we honor and remember Myrtle Berry Jones – a woman of strength, faith, and boundless love. May her legacy continue to inspire us all as we hold her memory dear in our hearts.
Janet Yvonne Jones Rucker, affectionately known as “Honey,” and dispatched his angels to gently carry her soul from earthly travails to heavenly home on Monday, August 29, 2011.
Born on May 1, 1936, to the late Royal T. Jones, Sr. and Myrtle Berry Jones, Honey was the fourth of six children and was preceded in death by her brothers, Lee B. Jones and Gilbert P. Jones.
Honey confessed Christ at an early age and became a member of Mount Shiloh Baptist Church in Monroe, VA, where she sang in the choir into her adult years. She graduated valedictorian from Amherst County Training School and received her elementary education from Rocky Seat Elementary School under the tutelage of Aunt Edith Jones. Honey dedicated twenty-five years of her life to working at Lovingston Garment Factory until her retirement.
She leaves behind cherished memories and a legacy of love. Honey’s loving and giving nature endeared her to many, especially her husband, Eugene S. Rucker, Sr., and her two sons, Eugene S. Rucker, Jr. “Gino” (Agnes T. Rucker), and Rufus Lee Rucker “Buddy” (Indwina N. Rucker), all of Amherst, VA. She also leaves behind seven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren who will forever hold her close in their hearts.
Honey’s memory is cherished by her surviving sister, Mildred C. Street of Crewe, VA, and her brothers Royal T. Jones of Apex, NC, and Tony M. Jones of Madison Heights, VA. She is also survived by her sister-in-law, Delilah K. Jones of Madison Heights, VA, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and friends, including members of the Jones, Berry, Johnson, Bibby, and Stevenson families.
Honey was known for her kind and giving nature, her sense of humor, and her love for collecting baseball cards, coins, and avidly working her crossword puzzles. She often concluded conversations with a giggle and four simple words, “Well, bless your bones.”
Today, we honor and cherish the memory of Janet Yvonne Jones Rucker – a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. May her legacy of love and kindness continue to shine brightly in our hearts forevermore.
Talmadge Berry (1916–1963)
Talmadge Berry, son of Silas Sr. and Maggie, took center stage in the next chapter of the Berry family saga. His union with Julia Sandidge, born on September twenty-seventh, nineteen sixteen, marked a pivotal moment in their story. Talmadge, dedicated to the United States Navy during World War II, imprinted an indelible mark on the family’s origins. However, tragedy struck on February eighteenth, nineteen sixty-three, when Talmadge’s life was cut short. Yet, his commitment to family and the values instilled in his seven children resonated through the generations.
Thomas Wilson Berry, Sr. (1936-2023)
Among Talmadge and Julia’s cherished children, Thomas Wilson Berry Sr. found solace and joy in the great outdoors. From fishing to hunting, baseball to football, and card playing to horse racing, Thomas’s love for nature and sports was evident in every aspect of his life. His presence was a beacon of strength and shared moments with family and friends, leaving an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing him.
On Sunday, April 30, 2023, our beloved Thomas, affectionately known as Tom, T-Bee, and Pop, answered the call of our Heavenly Father, finding eternal peace and rest in his heavenly home. Born on May 17, 1936, in Amherst County, Virginia, to the late Talmadge Berry and Julia Berry-Diggs, Tom’s life was a testament to faith, family, and resilience.
At a young age, Tom embraced his faith and accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior, guiding his path with grace and humility. He served his country with honor as a proud member of the United States Marine Corps, enlisting on March 20, 1956, and being honorably discharged on April 5, 1959. Tom’s commitment to service extended to his family life as well, where he formed a union with Elizabeth Jones on July 6, 1956, and raised three children: Diann, Thomas Jr., Kim, and his son Vincent.
Tom’s entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish the iconic “CASTAWAY BAR,” a testament to his vision, hard work, and dedication. Throughout his life, he touched countless hearts and lives, both through his successful business ventures and his unwavering commitment to his community. After retirement, Tom continued to make a difference, working part-time at Villa Maria Catholic Charities as a driver, where he formed lifelong friendships.
An avid hunter and devoted sports fan, Tom’s passion for the outdoors and love for the Baltimore Orioles and Ravens were central to his life. His presence on Hillenwood was a constant source of joy and laughter, as he shared his love for life with everyone he encountered.
Though our hearts ache with his absence, we find solace in knowing that Tom is reunited with his beloved children, Kim and Thomas Jr., in Heaven. His legacy of love, strength, and resilience lives on through his devoted wife and partner, Elizabeth Berry, his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, siblings, and a vast circle of cherished family members and friends.
Today, we honor and celebrate the life of Thomas Wilson Berry Sr., a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, friend, and pillar of strength in our community. May his memory be a blessing, and may his spirit continue to guide and inspire us all.
Doris Ann (1937)
Doris Ann, another child of Talmadge and Julia, added her unique talents and interests to the rich tapestry of the Berry family story. Her passion for serving, worship, family fellowship, cooking, spending quality time with friends, traveling, good music, and a rewarding day of retail therapy illuminated the family gatherings.
Bessie Lois (1939)
Bessie Lois, with a heart full of joy, contributed to the family legacy through her love for cooking for family and neighborhood kids, sewing, singing hymns, and embarking on shopping trips with her sisters during memorable family gatherings.
Jan Mae (1940)
Jan Mae found her happiness in spending time with family, shopping, cooking, excursions with friends, serving in the fellowship hall, Sunday drives, dancing, music, dining out, and sewing.
James Edward, Sr. (1942) James Edward, Sr., infused his unique presence and interests into the dynamic Berry family. His story, intertwined with the family’s collective narrative, added depth and richness.
Martha Lee (1945–2001) Martha B. Hunt, affectionately known to family and friends as “Butch,” embarked on her earthly journey on January 24, 1945, in Amherst, Virginia. Born to the late Talmadge Berry and the late Julia Berry, Martha was destined to touch the lives of all who knew her until God called her into His eternal presence on August 28, 2001, after a valiant struggle with cancer. She received her ultimate healing after a courageous battle – she was a triumphant soldier.
Educated in the public schools of Amherst County, Martha met and married the late Orpheus Lee Hunt, from which their beloved daughter, Vonda Kay, was born.
Martha accepted Jesus Christ as her Savior at an early age and found loving fellowship at Morning Star Baptist Church. She dedicated herself as a committed worker at R. R. Donnelly until her health no longer allowed her to work.
Martha’s zest for life was evident in her love for her family and her unwavering commitment to seeding goodness into their lives. Despite her boisterous and direct manner of speaking, Martha possessed a heart of gold, a ready smile, and a loving personality that left a lasting impression on all who knew her. She had an innate ability to make friends wherever she went and will truly be missed by all who were blessed to know her.
Her unconditional love for her family shone brightly, and Martha often spoke of the preparations God was making for a celebration. She leaves behind to cherish her memory and celebrate her life three daughters: Vonda Kay, Donnette Renee, and Terri Lavan; a devoted niece, Beth Payne; two brothers, Thomas and Winston Berry; three sisters, Doris Anderson, Bessie Campbell, and Janet Douglas; one sister-in-law, Elizabeth Berry; two brothers-in-law, Paul Douglas and Henry Anderson; a loyal companion, Henry Rose; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and devoted friends.
Martha Lee, with her vibrant spirit, contributed richly to the family tapestry through her love for dancing, playing bid whist, and embracing social gatherings. She treasured family moments, especially during Sunday breakfasts and summer vacations, leaving behind a legacy of love and joy that will forever be remembered in our hearts.
Talmadge Winston (1946)
Talmadge Winston, another branch of Talmadge and Julia’s legacy, discovered joy in hunting, fishing, listening to music, and cherishing the warmth of family bonds.
The Berry family’s origin, a mosaic of diverse interests, talents, and values, is woven with threads of love, laughter, and enduring family traditions. Talmadge Wilson Berry and Julia Sandidge’s legacies continue to inspire and shape the familial bond that persists through the generations, a testament to the resilience, love, and shared history that define the remarkable Berry family.