Everyday of my life was a memory with him. Love you forever and always Khalo. Allah yerhamack habibi. 

Ray, Kathy, Sharon, Pauline, Harry:

First, let me say how sorry I am for your loss. While you were so lucky to have your father as long as you did, it never makes a loss any less painful; perhaps having someone who is so important to us for so long makes the loss that much worse. I don’t know. But I am sorry.

While Gordon and I weren’t able to be at the funeral service in person, we watched the entirety via Livestream. I was struck by everyone’s words; they were so illuminating and thoughtful. I am weird in my love of funerals. They make me feel the value and meaning of life acutely when celebrating a life well-lived. 

The night before your dad passed, I sent Ray a picture of a Rumi poem your dad gave to me at one of the Davie New Year’s Day barbecues. I don’t know why on earth he would have been carrying “The Guest House” on him, but somewhere in our conversation, he bestowed that wonderful poem on me. It was my first introduction to Rumi (but not my last). And to hear you, Harry, speak of your father’s love of Rumi, it was crazy. I mean, my only real moment with your dad was some deep conversation about who knows what, but the end result: I netted a Sufi (sp?) Sam Rumi collectible! And then, Sharon, you commented that every book or poem Sam recommended was custom-tailored to that person — well, whether or not it was true, it was, in a way, how I felt when I spoke with him that day. In that exchange, it felt like we shared something, and I have never forgotten it. 

So, with those thoughts, I am one more person who wants you to know that your father touched so many tangential lives, and I am so glad I got to have my moment. Thank you for sharing your beautifully uplifting words and reminding us, during these crazy times, about the value of life and love (not to mention peace!). 

Warmly,
Deborah Geffen Posner

Osum I miss you already. 
Every trip I made to Florida, you opened your home and shared your amazing family. Your generosity was overwhelming.  Visiting Florida  will never be the same. 
I am thankful for the time we shared and the memories. I would like to share my favorite memory. 
Years ago we went to Mortons to celebrate. You allowed me the opportunity to order your well done steak.  I ordered the thickest NY strip, had the chef butterfly the steak and cook it well done. 
The steak arrived.  We all took a deep breath and went silent.  You cut the steak, enjoyed a bite, and that million dollar smile on your face said it all. This would be the first time you didn’t send your steak back and ask the chef to cook it longer. This performance was one for the movies. 
Faithfully,Tommy

A full life of laughs tricks jokes and scares. My uncle had one heck of a fun personality. I see how close uncle was to his kids. The outings vacations hangouts. Life was about togetherness with him. No matter where you are from, when you step into south florida, you know uncle ossum aunt nahla and his kids were more than welcoming.  From the great days of the 70s on the canal to the days of his pool at the barn house. All is welcome. Allah yerhamo.  May Allah give you patience e through through these hard times. I pray for aunt Nahla and all his children losing such an outstanding figure is not easy. Always know that he has put so much of his personality in each of you. God bless. Al fatiha

Losing a parent is one of the most overwhelming sadnesses. I went to FB and read the posts by your family and tears streamed down my eyes. I still remember him attending and supporting several of our foundation events, seeing him lounge in Sharon's real estate office and loving his wife. He was always so complementary, kind and wise. This earth has lost a great soul. Prayers for some level of peace and comfort are being sent out from Twan and I. We celebrated what would have been my mother-in-law's 73rd birthday as she was a "firecracker" baby born on the 4th of July. She died in 2004. Their spirit does not leave you. Their presence is in the eyes of our children, siblings and other family members. He will live on in that way. Know that even with distance, time passing and lack of constant physical contact, the Berrys will always quietly be extended family. We are standing beside you during this time of grieving and loss. May blessings abound. Love and blessings, The Russell Family

Shortly after I met my husband, he took me to Sharron’s house to meet the family. I fell in love with their energy. I quickly felt a bond with Khalo Ossum similar to a father/ daughter-in-law. I felt his father figure love immediately. He made everyone feel so special and poured his love on anyone he met. I’ll forever remember our chats and laughs. He will always be remembered for his kindness, hospitality, wisdom and that contagious laugh!  Visiting Florida will never be the same. I miss and love you so much Khal

My parents immigrated to South Florida from Lebanon when I was 1. Amo Ossum  and Tont Nouhila were one of the first people they met. I didn’t have grandparents around growing up, but I sure do feel as though I did because of them. 

When I think back my fondest memories include you, Amo  Ossum… Throwing us in the pool and teaching us to swim. Swimming with us endlessly in the summers, throwing a football around, climbing trees, and the “forest” at TY park. I remember “Sam Berry’s chocolate spread”, you teaching us the importance of reading and attaining knowledge, teaching us to drive, and playing hide & seek at Barnes and Noble after hours of being there. 

I cherish the vacations our family spent with yours. I cherish so many memories and I cherish the time I was able to spend with you. 

Thank you for all your wisdom and advice. My siblings and I may have not been your grandchildren by blood, yet I know we all certainly felt you were not only our GIDO, but you were the best GIDO we could have asked for. 

I know you are at peace now. You will be greatly missed, never forgotten. May you rest in paradise, Gido. Love you always, Z

To my friends and family that know my daddy and his strength, I want to share one of our last moments with my dad. 

Dads blood pressure and oxygen dropped so low.  I called my siblings to come and say good bye.  We were gathered around him, all of us in tears.   My daddy woke up, looked around and asked,  who’s dying?   He snickered drearily.   Of course, we laughed.   Just like our uncles, they would make us cry, laugh, and cry again. 
Sito and Gido, Uncle Harry and Uncle Abe,  aunt Fay, aunt Atarid, please take care of our daddy.  He’s so spoiled.  He missed you all so much.   Please don’t get into trouble up there.   

To his sisters, Aunt Rosie, Aunt Laila, and Aunt Miriam; his nieces, and nephews, and all the extended family and friends. Thank you for all the calls, the texts, the visits, the love and support.   We love you all. 

Daddy left us this morning.  He did it his way.  He was in no pain, and went in peace.  He was in his house surrounded by his wife and children. 
Love is the foundation of family.  
Mom and dad, you were a beautiful couple and incredible parents, grandparents, and great grandparents.   Mom and dad taught us what real love is.   Thank you.
Baba, I love you and miss you so much it hurts.  I’ll see you again!   
It’s amazing that the power of love from our family and friends has broken through even during this pandemic.
Pauline Fawaz, Harry Salah Berry, Ray Berry, Sharon Berry-Dakroub

Gido was meant to be a Gido. There are some people in our lives that just makes you feel grateful for knowing them, and Gido was one of them. Gido gave me what I never had with my own grandparents. I remember my first date with Michael was the Christmas party of 2012 , and since I was not big on family events, I specifically asked if there was a lot of family because I rather not go if that was the case,Mikey said it wasn’t.. fast forward the day of the party when I rang the doorbell, Gido and Sito opened the door. I didn’t understand the big deal about having a big family until I came to live with Kathy (my mother in law) three years ago. It was an adjustment for sure, and Gido always made me feel that I belonged. I’m so thankful for him to be willing to spend time with me, he always knew the right words to say, or the perfect quote for how I was feeling. He always had the perfect joke to make me smile.Gido showed me what love should look like. I will love and treasure this family that will forever carry his legacy ❤️ I love you Gido 

We always looked forward to seeing Uncle Ossum, he enjoyed life and making sure the people around him were always in great company. We would always leave our gatherings feeling more inspired and wiser and just happy being around someone so passionate for life and knowledge. We learned so many valuable things from him, he will be greatly missed, he was surely one of a kind. We love and miss you Umo Ossum. Much love to our amazing aunt Nahla and family.  
Mona and Eva Hassan 

Gido was a humble man. Even though we all have heavy hearts and miss him dearly, he wouldn't want us to focus on the sadness of his death, but rather focus on the extraordinary life he lived. Gido would want us to love and support one another, and help each other move forward with our lives together. 
Gido was one of the kindest men, and would welcome anyone around him. His generosity was endless and his wisdom limitless. He never judged or criticized, but would impart his advice in ways that made you really think and appreciate him.
When we were little, Gido would share countless stories of him growing up with his brothers and sisters. Of how he came to this country, starting a family, and so much more. Even if we’d heard those stories a hundred times before, you would sit and listen to every detail. He had an unforgettable way about him and his enthusiasm for life was invigorating. 
Whenever we would visit, Gido always played with us. We’d spend Sundays at his pool playing Marco Polo and BBQ’ing. We’d go on trips to Mackinaw Island or just to Costco eating hot dogs. He’d play jokes on us or trip us when we walked past him, laughing hysterically… teaching us to laugh everything off. 
He taught us to never fear anything. So in this moment, we’re listening, Gido. We’re not afraid that you’re no longer here. We aren’t afraid that we won’t hear your stories a hundred times more. Because we’re going to share those stories for you. We’re going to continue sharing with everyone who never got the chance to hear them. 
Although we’ll miss those pranks and his laugh. We’ll miss him and his love, we take comfort in knowing he lived his life as incredibly as him,  and in knowing the memory of him is in our hearts and the stories we will share. 
Gido, we will always miss you. Your guidance and love will carry us through to the end of our time. We will honor you by celebrating your life! 
We love you Gido!

Share Bear JR



My beloved uncle is now joining sito,gido,uncle Harry, uncle Abe, my mom Atori, aunt Fatima,aunt Mary my father and uncle Abdullah and the rest of the relatives may they all rest in peace. I love and miss them all so much and I think of them every day in my prays and I will always pray for them.  I remember my Uncle Ossum always chasing me around the table in our house on Canterbury, he would give me 25cents to buy him a pack of cigarettes and a pepsi the good ole days of the southend of Dearborn the best memories of my life was with my family on Dix. I have so many memories with my Uncle Ossum not enough space to share them. Your loss is our loss, May he rest in peace.

Forest Lawn South would like to express our deepest and sincerest condolences to you and your family at this most difficult time.  

We wish you peace to bring comfort, the courage to face the days ahead and loving memories to forever hold in your hearts.

Sincerely, 
Forest Lawn Funeral Home and Memorial Gardens South Staff


My Uncle Sam Berry,
Is and was my hero growing up..  At a time like this, I’m at a loss of words, almost like my mind shut down but I will try to explain why he was so great to me and many other people in his life.  For me, yes it is a great loss but this shouldn’t be a time of grief but a celebration of life. A life who gave so much to others that the world lost a great man!  Although he was my uncle he raised me as one of his own and in that I’m so grateful to him. His children can confirm that!  I remember him when he was young handsome, strong, loving, joyful and intelligent.  He also was a great competitor.  There are so many words I can describe about him.  He made me believe in myself and that I can do anything.  All I had to do is believe in it, even if I didn’t have the ability in beginning that eventually I would if I kept at it.  Just put your mind to it he would say. Be positive and he was right!  He looked just like Victor Mature.  Those of you who don’t know please check out the 1949 film “Samson and Delilah”.  My uncle looked just like him.  His body was the same, muscular and handsome.  He had big brown eyes, beautiful head of hair, mouth, etc. and it was easy for anyone to like him or to fall in love with him. He used to read books and told stories to us.  It was my favorite part about him.  That is probably why my aunt Nouhila married him and gave him five beautiful children to whom I call my brothers and sisters to this day.
To aunt Nouhila, thank you for allowing me to be a part of your family and I’m sorry for your loss, my condolences to you.  To my brothers and sisters, Pauline, Harry, Ray, Kathy and little Sharon, thank you for being my family.  Thank you for letting me in and enjoy my life with you guys while growing up. From the Florida trip to Key West, kapok tree and many other places we traveled together.  Thank you. I also cry in our loss of a great man and father such as My hero Uncle Sam. 

Dear Gido 
Thank you so much  for everything you have done for us. I can’t get out of my head all of the countless things you have been apart of in my life. Traveling to visit whenever we traveled, our long hikes in Reno, Nevada and you trying to convince me the guy I had a crush on was an idiot.  Most importantly I will remember  through my hard times when I felt anxious and insecure,  you were there to make sure I felt like the most confident woman in the world. When  I think about it, it was you, it was you who taught me to control my sensitivity and use it for good and control it when it can weaken me. You always worried about it with me, and you made sure you were there to guide me when I felt weak. I don’t know if I can say enough that I love you,  and thank you for everything you have done for me. Thank you for being my Gido and the best Gido in the World. I will miss you so much and my heart has not stopped hurting since you left.  

Love always 
Natasha (your granddaughter)

Our sincere condolences to the family of Ossum Berry.  I knew Ossum while attending Salina School with his sister, Laila and Marium.  As I gre older and started hanging out with my uncles, Ron & Don Unis. I grew to know Ossum better.  When the 1973 Middle East war broke out between Israel and Egypt we began organizing for the first time as Arab Americans.  Our efforts were to raise money to assist those whose lives had been shattered by Israel's unabated hunger for more Arab lands.  We raised money that was sent to The Red Crescent Society in Palestine.  In an effort to continue organizing Arab Americans in SE Michigan we needed and office to work out of.  As a member of the Hashmie Hall Society in the Southend of Dearborn my dad called for a meeting of the group.  The grouip had not met in over 20 years.  About 10 members answered the call and we met in the Hashmie Hall on Dix Ave.  Our group, then known as the Arab American Coordination Committee (AACC)  and two years later renamed as The Arab Community Center for Economic and Social Services (ACCESS) petitioned the members of the Hashmie Society to rent the hall still owned by the society.  A few of the members objected, some of whom were Ossum's close relatives.  Ossum and his brother Abe stood with us and berated their blood relatives for attempting to block our mission.  They stood as a wall against those who sought to shoot us down.  In the end the Society listened to Ossum and Abe and relented.  These two men helped to sow the seeds that eventually became America's leading Arab American founded organization offering social services to Arab Americans as well as any American in need of assistance.  Our prayers go out to Ossum Berry.  We know he will be granted heaven eternal.  Allah yerhamo.  We recite surat al Fatiha in his name.

Ron Amen & Mona Berry Amen

My Father, my friend, my travel buddy,  my mentor, my, ever so worthy, debate adversary! The man who instilled a love for reading in me and enlightened me in  Spirituality, Sciences, the history of the Middle East and Islam. The man who taught me that the more I learn, the more I would be aware of how little we know. He reminded me that what I was learning today, he already forgot yesterday.  The first face I saw after graduating with my Masters Degree. You stood in the heat to make sure you were first to catch me when I ran to you. I can still feel that hug.  You had tears in your eyes. What I would give to hug you like that again. You were so proud, but it was me that  would parade you around because that was my Daddy and there was no other like you. Your booming voice was the voice of wisdom. The laugh I heard if I tripped, or bumped something still brings a smile to my face.  Today its me with tears in my eyes. I don't know how to begin to let go of the Lion of our family. I watched you fight the fight of your life this last year. You made the decision to exit on your own terms. I stayed until you departed. Ba, There will never be another vacation, another classroom, another sunrise over the ocean or sunset over the Everglades that will resonate the same. I will forever hear you in the breeze and see you in the stars.  I will feel your presence in every breath... Until I see you again... I love you Ba.  RIP. Allah yerhamak. Alfatiha..

Your jouney here on earth has been completed.  Now rest, and enjoy your family in heaven.  

The Lion of The Desert! That's you, Ba! Our teacher, our guiding light, our protector, our spiritual advisor, and our leader.  You have now joined your parents, brothers and sisters.  You're home, Ba.  I know you'll be guiding our every move from the heavens.  I love you, I miss you...RIP, Ba! 

To the entire  Berry Family,
I've always felt over the years that you were my second family.  Harry's been my business partner and special friend for over 25 years. I'll never forget all the Dolphin tailgates, Ray's Christmas parties, IPS Christmas parties and events and every Berry wedding from Florida to Michigan.  Through these events I've gotten to know the whole family and their kids.  Best times of my life.  Sam was always the life of the party and was so proud of his kids and all their accomplishments. I loved all the office visits from Sam and Nouhila on a weekly basis.  I cherish all these memories of Sam and the whole Berry family.  Sam was a great man and father of a wonderful family.  He will be missed. Love you all.   Mary & Don Glaser

I haven't written in years, so it seems fitting I'd be able to because of you. May you rest in paradise Gido. 

-----------------
LEGACY OF YOU
-----------------
A man. A legacy.
Earned by years of wisdom imparted.
Journeys taken, memories forged - 
A life and family started.

You’ve now become the winds that blow, 
And brush away our tears. 
You’ve now become the shining sun, 
Shedding light on our fears. 

Our time with you seems all too brief,
And missing you is very strong.
Still your legacy remains in our hearts,
As the years will have come and gone.

How now can we find the words -
To express our debts due?
For the love you gave and love we have,
For the legacy of you.

Very, very sorry to read of Sam's death...Always enjoyed seeing he and your mom when they came to Maine (and he would sneak out to the DunkinDonuts). May his memory be  blessing....Miles and Sharon

Khalo Ossum was not only an honorable man but he was such an amazing human being.  He was the kindest human being and He wouldn’t hurt a fly. He always had a smile on his face and I’ll never forget his laugh. He always said “You’re so beautiful Khalo, you look just like your mother” He will be missed. We love him and our prayers and thoughts are with all of you. I’m sorry we couldn’t be there. 

Sam Rest In Peace our dear friend 
we will always remember you and all the precious moments we shared together 
Always in our hearts and in our prayers 
It’s a loss for those who loves you 
Our condolences to our lovely khalto and to your beautiful children may God be with you in these difficult times 
We love ❤️ you

My heart is heavy and I know you did not want to part but you were tired you took your treatment like a champ plus you passed like a trooper my dear brother you will be dearly missed I’m sorry I couldn’t be there for you Rest In Peace Habiba Rest In Peace  I love you until we see each other again Goodbye Hyatti 

To the Berry Family on this difficult day losing a family member is hard to imagine and pray that this day will never come the Herrera family wants to give condolences to your family.

May his soul rest in peace. الله يرحمه. 

I had the pleasure on more than one occasion to meet Sam and as patriarch I could tell he was loved by all the people who’s life he touched. He had a twinkle in his eyes I won’t soon forget, a sign of a gentle man with love in his heart. May he rest eternally in peace. 

My deepest sympathy to the Berry family. May you find comfort in the good and meaningful life Sam Ossum Berry lived and the beautiful family who carry on the best of him into the future. 

-Sherry Natelson 

My cousin Khalo Ossum is one Of the most wonderful people I’ve had in my life. When I moved to Florida in 2004 he took me into his home and his family and made me feel loved and welcomed. He treated me like I was one of his sons. He always welcomed me into his home and made me laugh and engaged me in intellectual conversations. I learned a lot from him about love of life, family and friends and leaving this world with no regrets. To me Florida will never be the same without him. I will never forget his warm smile, laughter and handsomely distinguished mustache. Love you always Khalo. 

Dearest Harry, Sharon and the whole Berry family
Our hearts break with you over the passing of a great Dad.
We remember at the mortgage company when he'd come by and how proud he always was of you guys accomplishments. We  pray for peace and comfort especially for your precious Mom.
Love, Sam&Arlene Rivers

My uncle will be greatly missed ! I miss all the great times we all had traveling , camping and much more. I love and miss you and I wish that as I got older to have had more time but he will never be forgotten!! I love you all ! My heart will always be with you...

Love yasmine and family

When I was a young man, around 13 years old, my grandfather took my cousin Tommy and I to the golf range. We started swinging and getting minor tips from our gido on how to get a good swing in. I was so focused on impressing him that I swung my club, missed the ball and let it go at the end of its rotation. The golf club flew in to the lights that were over my head. Tommy immediately starts laughing and gido says, “Michael, you are not supposed to let go of the club after the swing.” He made me laugh and told me it’s ok and not to worry. It was a memory that I will never forget. May he Rest In Peace. 

A gentleman, marvelous friend, always sharing welcoming smile, wonderful father and fantastic husband 💞 Those that we were lucky to meet him will be always blessed with the most precious memories .... we love you Sam !
Till we meet again! 
Louis and Montserrat Skinner 

AVIS DE DÉCÈS

Sam Ossum Berry

5 janvier 1936 – 3 juillet 2020

Forest Lawn Funeral Home & Memorial Gardens

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