TITLE: In memory of John Weldon Berry Sr.

SUMMARY: In memory of John Weldon Berry Sr.

FULL TEXT:
WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas honors and commemorates the life of John Weldon Berry Sr., who died January 18, 2019, at the age of 78; and WHEREAS, John Berry was born to Annie Glover Jones and John Jones on August 10, 1940, in Tyler, Texas; he graduated from James Madison High School in Dallas; and WHEREAS, John attended Prairie View A&M University, where he served as president of his 1962 graduating class and earned a bachelor of science degree in business administration; he continued his higher education studies at East Texas State University and earned a master's degree; in 1968, he joined the Theta Alpha chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Incorporated, and he was an active member who worked with the Omega Youth group for several years; in 2018, he was recognized as the 81st Grand Conclave for his 50 years of devotion to the fraternity; and WHEREAS, John worked for 38 years as a professor at El Centro College, and he was honored on numerous occasions for his dedication to the teaching profession and to his community; in 2006, he was awarded the Miles Production Company Outstanding Faculty Award for his excellence as a teacher with the Dallas County Community College District; and WHEREAS, A loving family man, John shared 55 years of marriage with Deralyn Gregory Berry, and they were blessed with two children; he cherished his grandchildren and held dear the bonds he shared with many of his extended family members; and WHEREAS, John Berry was a faithful member of Saint John Missionary Baptist Church in Dallas for more than 50 years, and he served the congregation as a deacon, Sunday school teacher, and choir member; he was a trusted mentor and friend to many, and he will long be remembered with respect and admiration by all who were privileged to share in his life; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 86th Legislature, hereby extend sincere condolences to the bereaved family of John Weldon Berry Sr.; and, be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared for his family as an expression of deepest sympathy from the Texas Senate and that when the Senate adjourns this day, it do so in memory of John Berry. West President of the Senate I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on January 30, 2019, by a rising vote.