Marelyn Ruth Berry

Marelyn Ruth Paradise Berry was born in Citrus Heights, California on July 8, 1938 to Felix William (Pat) Paradise (TN) and Evelyn Ruth Stowers Paradise (CA). Her parents, three brothers, Robert Hickey, Benjamin Hickey, Carlton Hickey and one sister, Jeanne Novak preceded her in death. She is survived by her husband of 69 years, Chuck Berry, who provided and ensured she was well taken care of until the very end. She also leaves behind three children, Tim Berry (Barb), Leslie Dobson (Rob), Jennifer Stembridge, a brother, Felix William (Bill) Paradise, Jr., 7 grandchildren, 10 great grandchildren, her little dog (Button) and many special friends.

Marelyn was a homemaker until her children graduated high school and then had a long successful career as a tour guide for Landmark Tours. She took groups all over the United States and Canada and took great pride in educating herself before each trip; therefore, providing her with a wonderful reputation in the industry and many repeat customers.

She enjoyed riding horses and reading. Inspired by her father, her love of horses started at a young age and her favorite was The Tennessee Walking Horse. As an accomplished rider, she won many blue ribbons showing horses and spent countless hours riding the trails of Sonoma County, the Sierra Nevada Mountains and the beaches of Bodega Bay. Marelyn also loved the written word and always had a book nearby. The ocean being one of her favorite spots, she especially enjoyed reading about the low country. Both her love of horses and reading she shared with her youngest daughter, Jennifer.

Anyone that knew Marelyn experienced her caring and thoughtful nature, traits she definitely passed on to her middle daughter, Leslie. She instilled in her children the importance of helping and giving back to others. She was known to be a wonderful cook and did not shy away from cooking for a crowd. In addition, she loved entertaining and spending time with her friends and family. Her children grew up, not only surrounded by people, but to the musical sounds of Tina Turner, Helen Reddy, Neil Diamond and Cat Stevens. An avid music lover, Marelyn spent hours listening to soft rock and country, but her favorite was the classical Clair de Lune – “the lifetime adventure of understanding the soul in all its phases.”

Never one to mince words, Marelyn would be the first to tell you that her children were her greatest legacy and biggest accomplishment. She was extremely proud of all her children, but none more so than her first born, Tim. She was quick to boast to everyone that her son was the owner of Berco Redwood and Berry Lumber and she was often seen sporting a cap or shirt that bore the business logo.

Marelyn will be remembered for the countless lives that she touched through the hope, strength and experience that she shared with others. Her passing has left a huge hole in the hearts of her family and friends. A celebration of life will be held this Summer and her ashes will be laid to rest in Roseville Cemetery alongside her parents.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.LambertFuneral.com for the Berry family.