James Berry
James Carnice “Jim” Berry, died with his loving wife holding his hand early Tuesday morning, November 26, 2013.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Roy and Estelle Harmon Berry and his brother, Billy Jo Berry.
He is survived by his wife of 43 years Carlydia Cloud Berry, daughters Bridget Nichols (Nick), Pamela Stansell (Kenny), Susan Perruso (Mike), Angela Berry Gentry (Eric), son James Marshall Berry (Ashlee), sister, Jean Binkley, nine grandchildren, including his best friend and “range riding” grandson, John “Walker”, one granddaughter due April 2014, eight great-grandchildren, several nieces and nephews, and sister in-law and brother in-law, Hedy and Benny Davis, who were great companions, friends, and caregivers.
From humble beginnings, Jim was born and raised in the small farming community of Houlka, Ms. It was here that he was instilled with the values of hard work, honesty, and perseverance, traits that he carried with him throughout his life. His desire, determination, and sincere commitment to quality of the job at hand eventually led to his founding of Chattanooga based Republic Parking System Inc. in 1966, of which he remained president and CEO.
His entrepreneurial spirit eventually led him to delve into other ventures in commercial real estate throughout the Chattanooga area, including the well known Republic Centre (named in honor of all Republic Parking System employees) and the recently renovated Liberty Tower, both of which will forever adorn the Chattanooga skyline.
During his career, he received many awards for his accomplishments including being one of the first inductees into the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga’s Entrepreneurship Hall of Fame, the reception of the Outstanding Tennessean Award, presented to him by Governor Ned McWherter in 1994, and selection for the Circle of Hope Award from the Arthritis Foundation in 1991.
Jim’s strong sense of community, paired with his love and pride for Chattanooga and Hamilton County were evidenced by his participation in, and serving on, numerous boards, commissions, and committees, including River City Board, Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce Board, Tennessee Aeronautical Commission, and the Arthritis Foundation among many others. His lasting influence upon the culture and landscape of the Chattanooga area are unmistakable and will be recognized for many years to come.
Aside from his business endeavors, Jim also shared a sincere love for life, friends, and family. His kind words and willingness to help others have touched many lives and will forever live in perpetuity in the thoughts and memories of all those who knew him.
The family would like to personally thank Home Comforts, along with numerous friends and family, who took such exceptional loving care of Jim during his last days.
Memorial contributions may be made in memory of Jim Berry to Bethel Bible Village, Meadowview Baptist Church, Siskin Hospital, and the American Heart Association.
Visit www.heritagfh.com to share words of comfort to the family.
Services will be held on Saturday, Nov. 30, at 11 a.m. at Meadowview Baptist Church, 10709 Ooltewah Georgetown Road, Georgetown, Tn. A private family burial will follow the service.
Visitation will be held on Friday Nov. 29, from 2–7 p.m. at Meadowview Baptist Church.
Arrangements are by Heritage Funeral Home, 7454 E. Brainerd Road.
James Bery