Alan Scott Berry

Al is survived by his wife, Katie (Williams) Berry, sons Todd (Shelly) and Michael (Lisa), and cherished grandchildren Ashley, Sarah, Olivia, Emma, and Charlotte. He is preceded in death by his parents, Scott Berry and Helen Berry (Matthias). Al was a man of music and teaching, with a deep love of his family and friends. Born and raised in Lancaster, Ohio, music was core to his life from an early age. His father was active in local bands and vocal groups, and during his youth Al developed skills in piano, trombone, and the double bass. Al pursued his passion for music at Capital University and The Ohio State University, where he earned degrees of Bachelor of Music Education and Master of Arts in Music Theory and Composition, respectfully. Capital is also where he met his soulmate, Kathryn “Katie” Williams. At first, he wasn’t sure what to make of this outgoing farm girl from Kenton, Ohio. But they fell in love, and on December 23, 2023, celebrated 61 years of marriage. Al and Katie's love story was the cornerstone of his life. Beyond their mutual passion for music and teaching, they enjoyed traveling together and spending quality time with family. They were more than just spouses; they were best friends and partners in all of life's endeavors. Katie's enthusiasm, infectious sense of humor, and adventurous spirit complemented Al's dedication, relentless drive, and steady presence. Together, they formed a harmonious balance and a companionship that was evident to all who had the privilege of knowing them. Al had a 35-year, distinguished career with the Columbus City Schools, starting as an instrumental music teacher at Walnut Ridge High School. He was the newly opened school’s first band director, and he quickly developed the program into a high school music powerhouse. His bands consistently earning the highest ratings in state band contests, presented Broadway musicals, and created their own BDBITL on Friday nights. These many years with the band were the most rewarding of his career. The enduring impact he had on his students was evident as many returned years or even decades later to express their gratitude for his leadership, inspiration, and musical lessons. He was later promoted to District Supervisor of Music for the school district, and was actively involved with the Ohio Music Education Association, serving as a District President and later as its State Treasurer. After retiring from the school district, Al went on to direct the variety show, Vaud-Villities, for eight years. Choral music was another significant part of Al’s life. He directed choirs at Shady Lane Church for 15 years and then continued for 40 years at Christ Lutheran Church in Bexley.

Beyond his musical teaching and directing, Al also continued to perform. He began his professional bass playing career during his college days performing with the Ray Roop Band “for your dining and dancing pleasure” at the Seneca Hotel. Subsequent performance experiences include the Rick Monroe Quintet, Jerry Kaye Orchestra, and over thirty years as bassist with the Columbus Jazz Orchestra. He was a member of many house and pit orchestras, and played for a wide range of musical performances at the Palace, Hartman, and Ohio Theatres.

Always being a bit of an engineer, and following in the footsteps of his father, Al worked for years in his garage to restore a 1962 Triumph TR3. His finished product earned Best of Show and several other awards at prominent car shows.

Golf was also one of Al’s great passions. He was a member of High Lands Golf Club in Pataskala for over 40 years, where he served two years as President of the club’s Board of Directors. He forged many lasting friendships there over the years and would go on to play some of the great golf courses across America with Katie and their High Lands family.

Calling hours will be held on Friday, January 12, 2024, from 6-8 pm at SCHOEDINGER EAST, 5360 East Livingston Avenue, Columbus. There will be a Celebration of Life service at 11am Saturday, January 13, 2024 at Christ Lutheran Church, 2314 East Main Street, Bexley, where family will receive friends from 10:00- 11:00 Saturday at the church. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the pipe organ fund at Christ Lutheran Church (@christbexley.org).