Robert Ray Berry Sr.

September 19, 1945 – February 18, 2026

Robert Ray Berry, Sr., lovingly known as Bobby and proudly carrying the title of the best Dad ever, passed away on February 18, 2026 at the age of 80. He was born on September 19, 1945 in Waco, Texas and grew up in Edgefield, Texas.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Buster and Lottie Berry; his brothers, Larry Berry, Ricky Berry, and David Berry; and his daughter, Gwendolyn Ray Berry.

Survivors include wife Donna Berry; son Robert Robby Ray Berry Jr and wife Sherrie; daughter Shonna Watson and husband Andrew; grandchildren Mica Berry, Kati Berry, Shelby Crim, Maddison Reid, and Gage Reid; five great grandchildren; sister in law Juanita Berry, Earline, and Mary; brother in law Mike; and many nieces and nephews.

Music was Bobby’s soul. As a young boy without a drum set of his own, he taught himself to play on pots and pans. Over the years, he played in several bands including Blacky and the Country Gentlemen and Sterling Kelly and the Hearts. He worked alongside Joe Poovey, also known as Johnny Dallas, and had the opportunity to open for notable artists including Charlie Pride who once told him after a performance, Boy you something else. Through music, Bobby made lifelong friendships and countless memories.

Beyond the stage, Bobby was a hardworking and dedicated man. He worked as a truck driver for HEB for over 25 years and was extremely proud of his career and accomplishments there. Despite not having the easiest childhood, he built a life for himself that he was proud of.

He loved family vacations, mowing his yard, and riding his golf cart with his beloved dog Bella. Some of his happiest moments were when his children, Robby and Shonna, would come to his shows and spend time with him there.

Above all, he loved his family deeply and leaves behind a legacy of resilience, music, loyalty, and love.

A celebration of Bobby’s life will be held with visitation on Monday from 6 to 8 p.m. at the funeral home. Services will take place at 1 p.m. on Tuesday, February 24, at Connally Compton Funeral Directors in Waco, with burial to follow at Gerald Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Ryan McMahon, Russell McMahon, Ronnie Langford, Tom Mervyn, Jay Harshfield, and David “PJ” Berry. Honorary pallbearers are Mica Berry, Jake Kramer, Jesse Crim, Ricky Don Berry and Andrew Watson.