Earl Clay Berry

Earl was preceded in death by his wife of 76 years, Marie Propst Berry; his sister, Jean Hohman; brother, Dale Berry; mother, Erma Beck; and father, Clay Berry. He is survived by his three children: Rick Berry (Sue Ellen); Shelley deLorenzi (Mike); Alan Berry (Jeanne); grandchildren: Shane Berry (Isabella); Angela Wike (Rich); Chad Berry (Katie); Adam Berry (Liz);Great-grandchildren: Evan Sullivan, Caleb Wike, Lyla and Nora Berry; and several nieces and nephews.

Earl graduated from Flat River Missouri High School in 1941, where he was active in all athletics: baseball, basketball and softball. He joined the Merchant Marines and served during WWII for 4 years. He worked for 18 years for St. Joseph Lead Company in Missouri. He served as a deacon and led music in worship services at First Baptist Elvins, Missouri. It was there where he felt the call to ministry. Earl then attended and graduated from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Ft. Worth, Texas in 1966 with two degrees. He served in Baptist churches in Springfield, Missouri; Burleson, Texas; Saginaw, Texas; Irving, Texas; and at Calvary Baptist Church in Clearwater, Florida. He retired after serving 15 years as an administrator for the Florida Baptist Convention.

Earl and Marie then retired to Clearwater, Florida. They traveled all over the world during their retirement.

Earl’s life was full and dedicated to family. He coached Little League baseball, served as PTA president, and led many church committees and community organizations. Professionally, he served as President of the Florida Baptist Religious Education Association and served as President of the Southern Baptist Camps and Assemblies Directors Association. Earl was a beloved father and granddad and “Grandpa Great”. We will miss him and all of his stories about his experiences throughout his long and productive life. He will be buried at Sylvan Abbey Cemetery in Clearwater, Florida and a memorial service will be held at a future date.