Johnny Ray Berry, 67, of Nacogdoches, passed away on June 17, 2024, in Nacogdoches, Texas.  Johnny is under the care of Dickie Allen Funeral Home in Cushing, Texas.

Graveside services for Johnny will be held on Saturday, June 22, 2024 at 1:00 P.M., at Mt. Moriah Cemetery in Garrison, TX, with Reverend Franklin Wade Officiating.

Johnny Ray Berry was born in Nacogdoches, Texas to Milton Berry & Jewelene Taylor on November 20, 1956.

Johnny attended David W. Carter High School in Dallas, Texas where he dominated the basketball court. After graduating high school he received a basketball scholarship to Frank Phillips College, in Borger, Texas. His basketball career ended due to a repeat shoulder injury, but he never lost his love for the game. He was later employed by Dallas Power & Light and Otis Engineering. He most recently worked for Pilgrim's Pride in Nacogdoches.

Johnny was preceded in death by his parents, Milton Berry and Jewelene Taylor, brother, Roy Milton Taylor and best friend, Gerald Booker, Sr.

Johnny is survived by his sister, Shelia Starks of Arlington, TX, Aunts, Ester Ferguson of Nacogdoches, TX, Susie Taylor, of Dallas, TX, Ruthie (Earl) Washington of Nacogdoches, TX, daughter/niece Shanika Bereal (Michael) of Los Angeles, CA and nephew Jonathan Starks of Dallas, TX. Special cousins, whom he affectionately called his girls Sonya Jones and Valencia Taylor. Very special cousin/best friend Clifford "Buddy" Anderson, Jr.

Do Not Stand at My Grave and Weep

"Do not stand at my grave and weep

I am not there. I do not sleep.

I am a thousand winds that blow.

I am the diamond glints on snow.

I am the sunlight on ripened grain.

I am the gentle autumn rain.

When you awaken in the morning's hush, I am the swift uplifting rush

Of quiet birds in circled flight.

I am the soft stars that shine at night.

Do not stand at my grave and cry;

I am not there. I did not die."-Mary Elizabeth Frye