James Lon Berry

James Lon Berry, aged 73, was born on November 29, 1950, in Lubbock, Texas. Known by most as Jim, but “Gomer” to many of his high school friends, he graduated from Robert E. Lee High School in Midland, Texas, in 1968, where he cultivated lifelong friendships and a love for baseball.

Following his graduation, Jim pursued his passion for baseball at Arkansas State University. After college, he moved to Austin, Texas, where his appreciation for music grew and he attended many concerts. He had a fulfilling career in the City of Austin Planning Department, dedicating 36 years of service to the community he called home. His commitment and talent left a lasting mark mapping Austin as it grew.

Outside of work, Jim was a devoted family man. He served as a dedicated coach for his son Justin's teams during his early baseball career, instilling in them the values of teamwork, sportsmanship, and perseverance. His love for baseball extended beyond the field, as he and Justin shared countless memorable moments cheering on the Longhorns as UT Baseball season ticket holders. Jim never missed an opportunity to support his daughter Kaya Bay, attending all of her gymnastics and cheerleading events and even showing up to support the teams she later coached.

After retiring, Jim spent several days a week with his grandchildren, creating cherished memories and nurturing their growth. He had a beautiful relationship with each of them. There was a special place in his heart for his first granddaughter, and he was very involved in her caretaking and medical needs.

Jim was also a proud member of the Cherokee Nation, embracing his heritage with pride. His connection to his ancestry enriched his life and added depth to his character. He frequently attended the Austin Pow-Wow and made sure his kids and grandkids were registered tribal members. Jim was passionate about helping the homeless, giving his time and resources to those in need.

Jim lived a life guided by faith and compassion, whether from the written word of the Bible and his relationship with God, or wisdom and philosophy learned from all spiritual walks of life. In his final days on earth, he quoted the hymn “when the roll is called up yonder, I’ll be there,” as he spoke of his unwavering belief that because of his savior, Jesus Christ, he would be reunited in Heaven with his Mom & Dad, Maw, and other loved ones.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Robert Arnold Berry & Alma Lonelle Berry.

Jim is survived by his son Justin (Melissa), daughter Kaya Bay Jackson (Josh), granddaughters Bree Elizabeth & Madison Grace, grandson Beau Ryan, sister Betty Posey (Tom), sister Suzette Berry, niece & nephews Jamie, Dusty and Dillon, along with great nephews and great nieces (Jackson, Hunter, Cooper, Gunner, Kesley and Paxten) whom he loved keeping up with over the years, and countless friends and extended family members.

On January 19, 2024, Jim was called home to Heaven. He will forever be remembered and cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord. (Romans 8:38-39)

Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me. My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am. (John 14:1-3)

The Lord said unto him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant.” (Matthew 25:23)

“And, just at the moment when someone says, "There, he is gone," there are other eyes watching him coming, and other voices ready to take up the glad shout, "Here he comes!" (Henry Van Dyke)

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Dell Children's Hospital Pediatric Intensive Care Unit at https://supportdellchildrens.org/give/ or to the SMC1A Foundation at https://smc1a-epilepsy.org/donate/. Your contributions will honor Jim's memory and continue his legacy of compassion and generosity.